A determined Calderdale boy trying to save a crumbling skatepark has been trying to convince councillors to back his campaign.

Charlie Ryan, accompanied by his dad Ben, addressed members of Calderdale Council’s overview and scrutiny committee, urging them to make improvements to the dilapidated ramps at Crow Wood Park, in Sowerby Bridge.

As reported by the Courier, Charlie has raised been on a mission to improve the skate park, which he says is cracked, full of holes, and “genuinely dangerous”.

He started a petition which has attracted hundreds of signatures, raised around £2,800 for the project and won the backing of Halifax MP Kate Dearden.

Charlie Ryan, left, and his dad Ben Ryan at Halifax Town Hall

placeholder image — Charlie Ryan, left, and his dad Ben Ryan at Halifax Town Hall

Charlie told councillors at the overview and scrutiny meeting that skateboarding was among his favourite things to do and his parents drove him to some skate parks in better condition, such as in Hebden Bridge.

But his local skate park should be available for all young people, including those whose parents might not be able to take them further afield, he said.

“Every single time we drive past Crow Wood Park on the way home I think that should be my local skate park,” he said.

“The skate park at Crow Wood Park is in a really bad state.”

Charlie explained trees are growing over it, twigs fall onto the ground and get trapped between the wheels and there are holes over the surface, including one where wheels could get stuck.

There is only one difficult ramp which is not suitable for beginners or for younger children to learn on, he told councillors.

He was inspired by his dad Ben who, as a youngster, was involved in establishing a skate park at a park in Denholme.

“If he can do it, why can’t I?” Charlie asked.

“I have not complained or blamed anyone – I have just tried to find a positive way to solve a problem.

“Every child should use it – it does not matter if your family has lots of money or not much money at all, everyone gets the same.

“All I ask is your full support moving forward – please back this campaign, please help me make it work, please think creatively, so we can find a way together to make this happen, even if it’s not straightforward.”

Answering questions from councillors, he said improvements might cost between £250,000 and £400,000.

Councillors were impressed with Charlie’s presentation and agreed to ask full council and cabinet to look for funds to improve the skatepark and other play areas throughout the borough.

To donate to Charlie’s campaign, visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/save-crow-wood-skatepark .