Kickstarting skills with Chilton youth project

A County Durham initiative is set to boost opportunities for local young people.

The Chilton Miners Welfare Ground Trust has received a £1900 grant from the Banks Community Fund to launch a series of bike and skateboard workshops and coaching sessions. 

Officials say the funding will help young people develop new skills and explore recreational sports in a structured and supportive environment.

The project’s three stages begin with raising awareness and engagement among young people, families, carers and the wider community, encouraging participation in organised sport rather than risky alternatives such as illegal off-road biking. 

It launched with a display from the RPM Biketrails team at the Chilton Show, showcasing the skills of some of the UK’s top demonstration riders.

Councillor Sue Reece, Chilton’s mayor, said: “This project has been designed to reduce the risk of young people disengaging due to the lack of opportunities to participate in activities in which they’re interested in, which could lead them towards issues with anti-social behaviour.

“This was identified as one of the priority areas to address as part of the Neighbourhood Plan consultations and we’re very pleased to have received the Banks Group’s support to kick start this exciting project.

“Our workshops will help participants develop a greater sense of ownership and pride in their community and community assets, especially when they see their artworks on display at the skate park, and will provide positive outcomes for both individuals involved and the wider community.

“The fantastic bike display we had at the Chilton Show created a lot of interest in what we’re planning to do and everything’s now in place to kick off the first phase of our project.”

Through the autumn, around 20 participants will work with a professional street artist to paint the skate and cycle park at the village’s Charlie Wayman Football Field. 

Plans are also underway for a membership club that will offer a range of organised activities at the Miners’ Welfare Recreation Grounds on Chilton Way, aiming to increase participation in local sports and recreation.

The Banks Group’s community funds are independently managed by Point North, formerly the County Durham Community Foundation.

Kate Culverhouse, community relations manager at the Banks Group, added: “Giving young people opportunities to follow their passions and express their creativity provides clear benefits for every part of the community.

“Chilton is setting a great example of how this task can be approached and we’re looking forward to seeing how this exciting project takes shape in the coming months.”

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