Youth hits back (From Barry And District News)

Youth hits back

BARRY youths are hitting back at claims they are making the Knap a dangerous place. Carys Jones, Isabella Thomas and Kelly Coleman, all 15, use the Knap but insist the teenagers at the skating park are not to blame for the vandalism residents have complained about.

Isabella said: "The area is crumbling, but we aren't damaging it. When we read the article in last week's News, people said the Knap is not a place to go after dark. But if the council could put lights there it would be safer for everyone.

"And we have a nice community. We all look after each other." Carys added: "The reason teenagers 'loiter' around the prom is because the park has deteriorated. It's rusty and the ground is uneven. It's hazardous to skate on whereas the promenade is smooth."

While they admit their numbers may intimidate people, they insist there is nowhere else for them to go.

Kelly said: "We need somewhere to just relax with our friends. After school you need fresh air and a bit of freedom. We've got our GCSEs next year and like to meet for a break. But we don't take drugs or drink and we don't want any trouble."

The teens admit they are at an awkward age. Kelly added: "We're too old for youth clubs and too young for pubs. But we're not doing harm." Isabella added: "We think last week's article should not have said "No Go Area", but "No Area To Go"

A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesman said: "We are not aware of concerns relating to the skate park's state of repair. Our skate parks and equipment are inspected regularly and we do not feel any matters need to be addressed at this time. If individuals have any concerns they can write to our parks maintenance manager, Phil Beaman, at the council's Court Road depot."