On tour at the police station (From Thisisdorset)

On tour at the police station

12:34pm Thursday 10th July 2008 in News By Echo Reporter

YOUNGSTERS took a peep behind the scenes at Dorchester Police Station after working closely with the Safer Neighbourhood Team in their efforts to get sports facilities in their village.

The children have spent nearly 18 months trying to encourage the community of Crossways to support their plans for a skatebowl and multi-use games area - MUGA - at the playing field off Dick o' th' Banks Road.

Their campaign to raise funds and support started in February last year when organisations including Magna Housing, Crossways Parish Council, Cross Ways Youth Club, Dorset Community Action and Dorset Police among others heard the plans.

The youngsters have attended forum and parish council meetings, organised and publicised events, given presentations and visited skateparks elsewhere in Dorset as well as holding events to raise funds.

Earlier this year the parish council voted in favour of the skatebowl along with a games area, seating and a shelter.

The visit to the police station saw children aged eight to 14 able to have a look round and meet police officers from the traffic and dog sections.

Vickie Hedges, PCSO for Dorchester Rural Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "The children told us some time ago there was nowhere for them to go so I helped start the ball rolling.

"I am really proud of the work the children have been involved in - they are an inspiration to all. This event is a reward for all the work they have achieved so far."

Kris Hallett, community support worker for Dorset Community Action, said: "They have been a very dedicated crowd. It's very commendable that all this work has been off their own bats."

Five lucky Crossways youngsters will also be treated to a trip to Westminster to be the guest of MP Jim Knight.