THE manager of a skatepark near Chester is appealing for help after a break-in.

James Hughes, who runs the Boneyard Skatepark in Tattenhall, is hoping to raise £2,000 to cover repairs and the cost of the items stolen.

He told The Standard that thieves kicked in the door of the venue overnight on Wednesday, October 24 and stole cash from the till and the CCTV recorder.

The Boneyard has been run as an independent not-for-profit organisation since 1996 with management of the venue handed down from generation to generation.

James said: “We provide people of all ages with a safe and friendly place to practice their sports, mainly bmx, skateboarding, rollerblading and scootering.

“We were recently broken into, and although we didn't have too much taken it has affected us none the less.

“Costs of repairs and replacements are in the hundreds of pounds. We have no external funding or grants and rely heavily on the memberships of our users.

“It has been a tough year already and the break-in hasn't helped matters. We would greatly appreciate any help.”

People have been quick to rally behind the skatepark, which is seen as an important community asset.

One mum said on the Gofundme page: “I want to do what I can to help this small business stay running. My son loves the Boneyard so good luck guys.”

And a man added: “The Boneyard skatepark was always a good place to be in my childhood and by donating I hope it's there for the next generation.”

To support the skatepark visit www.gofundme.com/boneyard-skatepark-fundraiser