Young skateboarders were jubilant when town councillors voted unanimously in favour of a new skatepark in Cricklade.

More than 40 youngsters crowded the Town Hall in the High Street to hear the verdict at last night's town council meeting.

It marks the successful end of a two-year campaign by the youngsters for a dedicated area in which to practice.

The scheme will be financed by North Wiltshire District Council and Cricklade Town Council, and is expected to cost £27,000.

Town Council chairman Clive Wilce praised the teenagers for their commitment to the cause.

Coun Wilce said: "Everything the town council asked the young people to come up with, they have done.

"They suggested the location, ideas for funding and management of the site."

One of the sport's fanatics, Rikki Stanbury, 18, attended the meeting with his skateboard.

Rikki, from Cheney Manor Road, said: "It's wicked. I was really hopeful after the last meeting. Everyone seemed to leave with positive vibes.

"I skateboard every day, usually just at school and in the doctors' surgery car park but it's difficult as people get annoyed. This is great news."

And Sylv Williams, 15, High Street, Cricklade, said: "I'm really happy. I have been to a meeting before and the councillors seem nice."

Coun Richard Roberts said he was impressed with the youths' continued involvement over the last two years.

He said: "They have consulted other young people about what is needed and have followed the progress with great interest."

The Cricklade skaters have designed the park to include a tarmac surface, which will keep noise levels down.

It will be built by the existing youth club.

It also emerged at the meeting that three officers have left Cricklade Police while two more joined.

Sergeant Andy Bridge of Cricklade Police revealed the changes, which took place over the weekend.

WPC Karen Ferris, WPC Sam Bussey and PC Steve Harvey all left on Sunday, and the force welcomes PC Mark Burnett and PC Andy Rymell.