The world’s most famous skateboader has backed a campaign to save a feature of the Malton and Norton Skatepark known as the Halfpipe.
Tony Hawk, nicknamed Birdman, is an American professional skateboarder, entrepreneur, and the owner of the skateboard company Birdhouse.
Hawk completed the first documented “900” skateboarding trick, licensed a video game series published by Activision, and is a pioneer of modern vertical skateboarding.
He sent a message from his home in California to Malton resident Ryan Swain who has started a petition to save the Halfpipe.
Tony Hawk said: “Good job trying to save your halfpipe by raising money and awareness in Malton and Norton.
“We need more public skateparks and the council should be helping you”.
Great networking hub
The Skatepark opened in 2001 over the course of 20 years it has been an asset to the local Ryedale community especially the younger generation.
It’s one of the only things in the Malton and Norton area left for the younger people to do for free. It has been a great networking hub for youngsters to meet new friends and learn new skills and also be proactive for free.
The Halfpipe was at one time was the only outdoor example in the UK that was free to use.
Professionals have travelled far and wide to have a go on it.
Councillors Dinah Keal and Steve Mason supporting the campaign to save the Halfpipe but while the rest of the park will get a much needed makeover, there are no plans to include the Halfpipe at the moment.
There is a petition set up to support the calls for a refurbishment of the halfpipe which has been left to rot according to some users. Some people in the towns have raised concerns that it’s too dangerous to use but experienced skateboarders say it’s perfectly safe for people who know what they are doing and should be retained for experts.