Residents are being invited to a free family event next month to celebrate the newly redeveloped King George V Skatepark in Hitchin.

The special opening celebration will take place on Friday 29 May from 10am to 4pm at King George V Playing Fields, with free coaching sessions, competitions and open riding throughout the day.

A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony will also take place to mark the completion of the project, with Amy Allen attending.

The refurbished skatepark has been designed with input from local young people and the wider community, with organisers saying the aim was to create a safer and more inclusive space for skateboarders, BMX riders and scooter users of all abilities.

The redevelopment was delivered by North Herts Council in partnership with Groundwork East and specialist designers Canvas Spaces.

The opening day programme includes:

• 10am to 12pm – Free coached sessions
• 12.05pm to 12.15pm – Speeches and ribbon cutting
• 12.15pm to 4pm – Open riding, competitions and prize-giving

The finished skatepark features three separate riding zones, a mini ramp, street skating area and a large open bowl said to be one of the biggest in the region.

The site also includes a memorial to local skater Ben Patane.

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Sarah Kingsley said: "The KGV Skatepark redevelopment shows what can be achieved when we actively listen to our communities.

"Young people helped shape this space from the very beginning, and the result is a high-quality, inclusive facility that supports physical activity, confidence-building and social connection."

The event is free to attend, no booking is required, and spectators are welcome.