While BMX bikers in Devizes have lost their track, those in West Lavington are enjoying their purpose-built £17,000 facility.

Although the new track on the recreation field at West Lavington does not officially open until September 7, youngsters are already taking advantage of it.

The new track was put in place just as the unofficial one behind Devizes Cemetery was levelled by contractors for the Society of Merchant Venturers, the owners of the land.

They had been urged by the Devizes and Roundway Joint Burial Committee, which runs Devizes Cemetery, to undertake the work after numerous complaints about anti-social behaviour there.

BMXers from Devizes are already finding their way to the new track at West Lavington.

George Baker, the actor who was largely responsible for setting up the successful youth club in the village, looked on with satisfaction last week as children of all ages hurled themselves along the 54-metre long switchback.

He said: "It is terrific to see them enjoying themselves and getting fresh air and exercise."

Mr Baker said the money for the track was raised in three weeks, about the same time as it took to build the track from scratch.

Grants were received from Kennet District Council among others, and around £3,000 was raised from sponsored events.

The new track will officially open on Sunday September 7 when a sponsored bike ride will take place to raise cash to maintain it.

The ride will set off at 11am from the village hall. Younger riders will circle the recreation field but those over seven will cover a seven-mile course along Duck Street, Stibb Hill, the Ridgeway, along to Urchfont Copse and back. At 1pm a BMX display team will show its skills and at 2pm there will be a barbecue. To take part in the bike ride call youth club chairman Eric Freeman on 07813 765147 or Mr Baker on 07968 064485.