Teenagers in Wallingford have welcomed a proposal to build a skatepark on town council-owned land.

In-line skaters and BMX riders have campaigned for it, but finding a suitable location has been a problem.

Demand for a new skate area increased when a 'half-pipe' stunt ramp in the Bullcroft park was dismantled after being vandalised.

Mayor Nigel Moor told fellow councillors on December 9 that identifying appropriate land for any new skate park was the key.

Town and district councillor Alec Hayton suggested the top corner of the allotments by the Hithercroft.

The sheds have been targeted recently by arsonists and thieves.

Mr Hayton added: "I'm suggesting that we put a fence around, perhaps sell the land to South Oxfordshire District Council, and access is through the Hithercroft, not the allotments."

Members warned that insurance against personal injury claims could be high and noise pollution would need to be reviewed.

But they agreed to explore the possibility of siting a skatepark on part of the allotments between Fir Tree Avenue and the Hithercroft Industrial Estate.

South Oxfordshire District Council would be asked for money.

Keen skateboarders Chris Wright, 16, of Borough Avenue, Wallingford, and Jonathan Harris, 19, of Crowmarsh, said any new facility would be well-used.

Mr Wright said: "We've been hoping to get a skatepark ever since the half-pipe in the Bullcroft was pulled down in the summer."

Town councillor Richard Wooldridge said progress depended on a district council grant.