THE steady sound of hops, flips and jumps is a sure sign Newton Farm's new £30,000 skate-park has been a big hit with kids south of the Wye.

The hangout for boarders, skaters and BMX bikers comes after three years of fundraising by the Newton Farm Youth Action Group.

"The determination of the group has been magnificent. The young people have put in loads of effort and given up a lot of time to make the project happen," said the South Wye Community Development Team's Will Lindesay.

The park is situated off Brampton Road and has been built from seven pieces of steel street course equipment. It was completed early August and has been well used by the youngsters who have campaigned for it to be built since 1998.

Will added: "NFYAG is extremely grateful for the support it has received by the South Wye community. The group has provided an excellent example of what can be achieved here - they should be very proud."

Financial support came from local grant giving bodies including The South Wye Partnership and the Newton Farm Community Association.

At the official opening on September 9 youngsters celebrated with a show of some of their new moves.

They used the opportunity to raise more money, entering into a skating fundraising competition to help pay for benches.