A COUPLE are doing their bit in an effort to create a positive space for Bude’s skaters.

Morwenstow residents, Sophie Ford and Tom Pretty have launched a project to create a space where ‘young people can build confidence, form friendships and support one another’, through a shared love of skating.

The pair have launched a mission to create an indoor skating space for the town.

Speaking to us, the pair explained: “Creating something positive for Bude, particularly for young people, has been a dream for a long time. Having children of our own has made us even more aware of the need for places where they can be active, build confidence and make friends.

“Skating has been part of both our lives since childhood, and we feel an indoor facility would be a natural fit for Bude.”

From a young age Tom has been an avid skateboarder, and even helped build a skatepark at his school in Bedfordshire. While Sophie loved roller skating as a child and was always borrowing her brother’s skateboard, she never quite mastered it, however, she’s now determined to finally learn.

So far, the pair have asked locals their thoughts on the facility via a community survey.

“We launched our survey at the beginning of September and have received 452 responses so far,” the pair explained.

“The response has been incredibly encouraging. People have offered help with construction, materials, business advice, design, fundraising and volunteering. We have already met so many generous and knowledgeable people, and we’re excited about the possibility of bringing those skills together.”

However, many residents will be questioning where the space could be created and what it could include.

Sophie and Tom explained: “Our ideal facility would include a bowl, a variety of ramps and a generous open area, offering something for different abilities. Alongside the skating space, we would love to include a café, a comfortable lounge area and a shop.

“Above all, we want to create a welcoming environment where people feel safe and included, whether they are trying wheeled sports for the first time or have been skating for years.”

The pair are also exploring potential premises in and around Bude with the intention of starting on a manageable scale.

“This is a significant project, and we want to establish a facility that works well and can grow sustainably,” they said.

“Our longer-term ambitions are bigger. If the initial facility proves successful, we would love to explore a larger venue, potentially incorporating other activities such as climbing and bouldering. For now, our focus is on finding the right space to get started.”

While there is still plenty to be done, Tom, Sophie and the community are excited about the prospect of the new space.

The pair added: “Bude is a wonderful town with a strong community spirit. As the town grows and more housing is built, we feel there is a need for more recreational opportunities, particularly for children and teenagers.

“There is plenty of work ahead, but the support so far has given us real encouragement. We’re excited about what this project could offer Bude and its community.”