SKATERS have defended Winchester's main skatepark following a warning from schools to parents about drug use at the facility.

As previously reported in the Chronicle, headteachers at three secondary schools issued a joint letter over drug use and dealing at the site next to River Park Leisure Centre.

But users of the skatepark say it is a positive part of the community.

Jack Vear, co-owner of Beans and Boards skate shop, said: "It has got a lot better. They seem to be using the place as a scapegoat. There are problems with behaviour and drugs in open air spaces in Winchester, so I can understand it, but it's all areas.

"We don't want kids to miss out on a great hobby that they might love because they have heard that there is a problem there.

"It gets kids some fresh air and exercise and away from their screens. If anything that space is what has kept kids away from drugs."

Kyle, also a co-owner of Beans and Boards, said: "We have held lots of skateboarding events, the park is part of the community. In April we had 90 people of all ages gathering there to raise money for charity, and that is the thing that we want to see there.

"We don't disagree with what the heads and teachers are doing, that is perfectly fine, but there is a bigger picture.

"If people saw some of the talent down there at the skatepark, the ten and 12 year olds skating, it is an amazing thing."

Harry King, who skates at the park, said: "Since the revamp and compared to what is used to be like, it has a positive impact. There's always going to be problems with drugs anywhere but it shouldn't be pinpointed on the skatepark."

David Allison, who also skates at the park, said: "It is very social, like a clubhouse. A lot have been going since they were much younger. Everybody looks after each other.

" A lot of people travel a long way to Winchester to skate there, from across the South Coast. It's one of the good ones."

Following the letter from Kings’,The Westgate and Henry Beaufort, a meeting took place between the schools and the city council, who own the site, regarding anti-social behaviour.

However, Hampshire Constabulary stated they had not identified a specific problem with the skatepark.

Jack added that they were willing to speak to schools or any parents to reassure them.

"We are here to help. We are here for any kinds of advice on how to use the park and what to expect when you go down there," he said.