A skateboard and BMX group has set-up up monthly lessons for youngsters.

Skate Loughton will be holding two-hour sessions at a temporary skate park on the all-weather pitches opposite Roding Valley School in Roding Road, Loughton.

The group has been working with Roding Valley High School and Loughton Town Council who have provided £8,000 for the venture.

Chairman of Skate Loughton, Paul Morris, said: “We’re expecting around 20 to 30 kids to show up at first but hopefully the numbers will increase as people become more aware of it.

“It would be great for parents to get involved and create a lovely community project.”

If the sessions prove popular the group hopes to secure a permanent venue for the skate park.

The father-of-three added: “We have a lot of green spaces in Loughton but not much for kids to do.

“The forest isn’t a great place for them to be on their own so this skate park will keep them occupied and prevent them from getting involved in anti-social behaviour.”

In order to skate at the events people will have to become members of Skate Loughton and will have to wear a helmet which can be provided.

The dates of the events are:

March 31 - 5pm until 7pm
April 28 – 6pm until 8pm
June 2 – 6pm until 8pm
June 30 – 6pm until 8pm
August 4 – 6pm until 8pm
September 1 – 6pm until 8pm

For further information call Paul Morris on 07883 391 053