OLYMPIC double-trap shooting gold-medallist Richard Faulds (pictured) has formally opened the new skatepark in Longparish.

The park has been built thanks to a £13,000 grant from Test Valley Borough Council and fundraising by local youngsters, who raised £4,000.

Organiser Fiona Gould said the youngsters used to practise their skills at the top of the village, but this upset residents because of noise.

Skateboarders sent e-mails explaining their problem to the village website and, as a result, a trip was organised to look at facilities elsewhere.

The youngsters eventually plumped for a wooden, two-level half-pipe which was big enough to take BMX riders as well as skateboarders.

Fundraising events included a sponsored walk, clearing up after the village fete and cleaning cars. The youngsters have now committed themselves to fundraising every year to pay for maintenance.