I read with surprise that the youths of Swindon look as though they will be disappointed yet again in their attempt to have a much-wanted and needed skate park.

Residents again wish to prevent this happening, this time in Haydon Wick.

The young skaters have already been refused permission when Stratton residents objected, yet the site originally discussed in Stratton was ideal. It was surrounded on three sides by open space and only those living in the short terrace of houses on the fourth side objected. These objectors were successful leaving the youngsters with nowhere to skate.

I can assure the residents that the young skaters are not vandals. All they ask is somewhere to practice their skills. They are athletes but constantly get spurned because of residents do not know them.

These children are discriminated against by adults due to ignorance. Had these adults been at the Civic Offices when the petition was presented to Mayor Coun Stan Pajak last month, they would realise these young girls and boys are educated, literate and well behaved. They are not into vandalism but could soon turn to this if continually refused a skate park in this supposedly all embracing town.

Swindon has playgroups, mother and toddler groups for the very young, play parks with swings for the next age group and tennis courts, badminton courts, football and hockey pitches for those who want to play organised games, but absolutely noting for the skate boarders.

Please, Swindon councillors, give the children of Swindon the skate park they so richly deserve.

Anne Baxter

Swindon