AROUND 400 people joined Team GB BMX star Liam Phillips on Saturday afternoon for the official opening of Whitehill and Bordon’s new skatepark.

The Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, which is developing the Prince Philip Barracks area, headed the project and described the facility as “one of the biggest skateparks in Hampshire”.

The opening attracted visitors of all ages from across the region, with most turning up on bikes, boards and scooters.

Visitors could try out the ramps, as well as meet former world and European BMX champion Mr Phillips, who spent the afternoon having his picture taken and signing cycle helmets, handlebars and T-shirts.

Visitors were also treated to a stunt display by Team Extreme’s show riders and could take part in competitions.

As he opened the new skatepark, in Budds Lane, Mr Phillips said: “It is really important to have access to such great facilities which encourage youngsters to get away from TV screens and video games.

“What is great is to think that people could start out here at Prince Philip Park, at age five, and one day become Olympic champions, competing on a bike or a board.”

The opening of the skatepark is the next step in the delivery of Prince Philip Park by the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company.

Positioned at the top of Budds Lane, at its junction with Station Road, the skatepark will eventually include a nearby cafe and youth-activity centre.

James Leckie, project manager for the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, said: “The turnout for the opening was phenomenal and just goes to show that people are excited to see more and more facilities coming forward.

“The fences to the ramps came down the Monday prior to the event and we have seen it in use from the early hours every day.

“I see people on there as early as 8am when I arrive for work because the younger children head over early with their parents before it gets busy.

“The parents generally hang around to oversee and make use of the free WiFi. From children of all ages using the park, we are seeing a great social etiquette, with them showing the facility and other users respect.

“There is a natural community developing already, with those using the skatepark sharing equipment and trading tips and tricks, as well as a friendliness in the way they take turns to do their runs.”