The new and improved Sele skate park in Hexham is open after six months of refurbishment.

The upgrade has been welcomed by the Hexham Youth Initiative group, which asked the council to support it with a contribution of funds to help resurface the park.

After a donation from Hexham Town Council of £25,000 and with their own fundraising efforts, the group raised £150,000.

Work started in November last year.

A spokesperson for Hexham Youth said: "We are over the moon.

"It really shows what partnership working can achieve and Hexham Town Council has been fantastic.

"They really listened to the young people."

Also pleased about the finished product, Mayor of Hexham Derek Kennedy said: "We are delighted that the new skateboard park is open in the Sele.

"The young people of Hexham asked for a new improved facility and working with the Hexham Youth Initiative, the Hexham Town Council, and our funders, a new facility is ready.

"It’s the perfect time to be opening at the start of spring so the skaters will have maximum opportunity to play and develop their skills.

"Well done to everyone involved in delivering the project."

Cllr Trevor Cessford adds: "It looks great and I can see it already being popular with the young people in Hexham.

"It was the right time to do it over the winter as now everyone can enjoy it when the weather gets warmer."