The city of Wells welcomed its 651st Mayor, Councillor Louis Agabani, at the Town Hall on Saturday, 10^th May. Following the Mayor Making ceremony, Cllr Agabani announced his chosen charity for his mayoral term: The Wells Skatepark Project.

 'I have been working with the Wells Skatepark Project since I became a councillor several years ago and am passionate about what it will bring to the city,' he explained.  'I am really excited to do all that I can during my year in office to help bring the plans to fruition.'

Fundraising is starting in earnest and to mark the beginning of his term the Mayor is supporting a community crowdfunder launched by the charity (crowdfunder.co.uk/p/skatewells. )  Louis urges residents and businesses alike to get involved. 'The crowdfunder is not just important to raise money for the build,' he explains. 'It shows local support which in turn will enable us to go for the larger national funders and grants that are available.'

Wells Skatepark Project was set up five years ago by a dedicated group of local residents looking at how to replace the current park, once a vibrant community amenity but now unfit for purpose.

By engaging with schools, parents, young people, youth workers and riders, a new plan was recently unveiled by specialist, Maverick Skateparks. It was formed following 250 responses to a local survey and a design consultation which attracted 80 people to the Town Hall. The project has received formal backing from key local stakeholders including the local police, Tessa Munt, the local Member of Parliament, Somerset County Council, and now the new Mayor of Wells.

'This modern, inclusive skatepark really has been designed by the community for the community,' says Louis. 'For a long time, Wells has placed emphasis on provision for older generations. However, with recent housing developments attracting young families and the growing population of children and teenagers, there is a real need for free, accessible youth-focused facilities. What could be better than an outdoor space, for building skills, confidence and friendships while staying active. It is more than just a skatepark: it's a response to the challenges faced by our youth.'

The Mayor Making ceremony also hinted at an exciting fundraising art-meets-skateboarding collaboration planned for later in the year, with some striking skateboard decks on display including designs from Joby Carter, Leddy, Katie Jones, Heather Jane Wallace and Rebecca Barnard.

'I approached Paddy O'Hagan, Chair of Wells Art Contemporary (WAC), to discuss the idea of a collection of custom-designed skateboard decks by artists and creative talents, which could be included in this year's WAC exhibition of contemporary art held in Wells Cathedral,' explains Louis.

Paddy and his team quickly came on board. 'We thought it was a fantastic idea, and a great addition to this year's WAC community projects,' says Paddy. 'The artists have jumped at the chance to get involved and we have a truly unique collection of decks to join WAC this October. Its particularly exciting as Wells Cathedral will be a striking setting for this creative celebration of youth culture and artistic talent.'

The deck collection will then move to Heart of the Tribe Gallery in Glastonbury, travel to LOAF in Wells before finally going under the hammer in an online auction at the end of the year. 'The auction will provide a fantastic opportunity to buy a one-off piece of art and raise crucial funds for the skatepark,' says Louis. 'It's a win win.'

For further information on the project visit [email protected]  or follow @wells_skatepark