UK's top trick cyclists call for a home in city

A NEW all-weather skate park could be built in Derby following calls from some of the UK's most talented BMX riders.

The freestyle riders, who perform tricks on their bikes, say they have been without a dedicated place to hone their skills since the closure of the Storm skate park, in Pear Tree, almost five years ago.

Former world champion Jamie Bestwick, who is originally from Derby, along with the UK's third-best female rider, Lauren Smith, and professional freestyler Mat Roe, who also live in Derbyshire, have called for the new facilities.

They say the skate park in Alvaston is great for racing but those who freestyle are lacking somewhere to ride. A recent DVD premiere showing a freestyle event attracted more than 150 riders to a Derby pub, so the riders say there is a following for the sport.

In response, Derby City Council says it is looking into developing an all-weather skate park that could be used for freestyle BMX riding.

Mr Roe, from Wessington, is tipped to become a future national champion by his sponsor, Mode BMX, in Friar Gate.

The 23-year-old said: "Freestylers need a good, safe place to ride.

"Derby has fallen behind many cities in what is available, yet it has produced so many great riders."

Miss Smith, who works for council-funded Cycle Derby, said: "A lot of famous riders have come from the city and it would be such a shame if people who look up to them had nothing to use."

Former Landau Forte pupil Gavin Cope agreed.

The 33-year-old, of Borrowash, said: "Derby has always been an epicentre for the sport and all the riders are asking for is a decent facility they can use that is safe."

BMX riding has always been popular in Derby.

In the 1980s, the Derby BMX Club regularly hosted the British Championships at the old Greyhound Stadium.

The club moved to Alvaston Park in 1987, where a race track is still used by more than 60 members.

Councillor Joe Naitta, city council cabinet member for leisure and culture, confirmed he was now looking into developing an all-weather skate park.