Wolverhampton skatepark opens in memory of pal

Ian Sole started up his own not-for-profit company in a bid to open the skatepark to encourage youngsters to get off the streets and away from their televisions.

Mr Sole, aged 43, said he has witnessed himself how beneficial an activity like skateboarding can be.

His friend Justin Calder died in 2009, leaving his young son Zac devastated by his loss. Mr Sole, of Crimmond Rise, Halesowen, said: "He became quite introverted, and didn't want to socialise.

"But as soon has he got into scooters, it all changed.

"Myself and his mum encouraged it, and it really brought him out of his shell, and got him out meeting people."

Mr Sole saw what a good impact this had on 14-year-old Zac and decided to set up his own not-for-profit company to give more children the chance to experience skating.

He said: "I wanted to do something to get the kids off the streets, and away from their video games. I started by hiring out ramps to community events, and then we went to set up a skatepark."

Mr Sole has now opened the skatepark called Just Ramp, in memory of his friend.

He said Zac, who lives in Halesowen and attends Haybridge High School in Hagley, is delighted with the park.

The park at Unit 5 on Waterside Industrial Estate on Ettingshall Road has ramps, a mini half pipe, grind rail and fun box.