AN 18-year-old student from Horwich is hoping he can get a new skate park built on Station Park after setting up a petition.

Beck Mallon thinks the new community amenity could give youngsters in the area something to do - and help reduce crime.

He has the backing of local councillor Kevin McKeon and hundreds have signed his petition since he started it on Monday.

Beck said: “There were originally four or five ramps in the park but a couple got set on fire and got chucked out.

“They were thinking about revamping it but it isn’t very level grounded, so a lot of people, including me, go to Atherton and Bolton. Many young people simply cannot afford the bus travel every day to neighbouring towns and would benefit massively with the construction of a well-made skate park.

“There has always been anti-social behaviour in Horwich but it seems to be getting worse. I know of people who carry knives around too - I think a lot of people are bored and need something to do.”

Beck says the park’s old multi-use gaming area (MUGA) was taken down and used as a temporary car park for the construction of the new leisure centre- now left as piles of rubble. He said this would be the “perfect area for a new skate park.”

Cllr McKeon said: “I think Beck’s letter to me was very passionate and he has obviously thought very deeply about this. He pointed out a skate park would help to engage young people and possibly be one answer to the anti-social problem we have had in recent years.”

The councillor said a development plan is to be put forward to Horwich Town Centre steering committee, including potential provisions for skateboarders.

He added: “The plans might not be ambitious as Beck would have liked so I will be asking officers to talk seriously to him and his friends to see what can be done.”

To sign the petition, click here.