ABINGDON mayor Lorraine Oates admired the red hot skills of trial bike riders during the annual memorial ride at Abingdon United's ground in Northcourt Road.

Every year, young riders get together in memory of David "DJ" Jones from Abingdon who was the victim of a hit-and-run in May 2004. He was 17 when he was killed by a stolen car.

About 150 riders gathered to celebrate his life with a display of riding over upturned skips, wooden pallets and planks.

There are 2,000 trial bike riders who attend events in various parts of the country, including the Abingdon memorial ride.

The Abingdon riders are now seeking a permanent home.

Teenage rider Daniel Gunston, from Abingdon, said: "We are keen to find somewhere to go off the streets away from violence and traffic dangers that tragically ended the life of David Jones.

"We would like a barn or warehouse with easy access away from town so youths don't vandalise it or see it as a place to hang out."

Mrs Oates, pictured with Sam Wheeler, 20, front, and Ben Beckett, 17, back, said: "I was very impressed with the young riders.

"I will be in touch with the county council and Vale of White Horse District Council to see what help they might be able to offer."