A FESTIVAL which sees a 12th century abbey transformed into a temporary skate park, has celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Malmesbury Abbey Skate Festival was held during the school half-term break last week, as hundreds of skating novices and first-timers of all ages, had a go at skating in the unique setting.

The three-day skatepark festival, which began in 2009, is run by volunteers in the Abbey congregation, in partnership with charities Christian Surfers and Christian Skaters UK, and has become a popular annual event.

This year’s festival has been particularly successful, with people who attended the very first event coming back and showing off their skating skills.

“It has been great, nearly all of the sessions have been full,” explained national director of Christian Skaters Phil Williams.

“It was really good seeing so many of the youngsters in their first session in the morning. It is really fantastic to see them for the first time going on the ramps and seeing them improve is really inspirational.

“You see the smiles on their faces it is amazing. I think mums and dads really appreciate it as well as it’s a safe environment.

“If, at the end of the first session they have improved and have a smile on their face, it gives us such satisfaction and that is what keeps bringing them back.

“But the volunteers love skateboarding, and without them we couldn’t run it.

“Partnership is really important. Partnership with the Abbey, skaters, the community and the skate park. I don’t think it would still be going if it didn’t tick all these boxes.”

The three day event involves different age group sessions and competitions.