Richards legacy (From Barry And District News)

Richards legacy

THE death of champion skater Richard Taylor in a freak accident last year left a void in the hearts of many people.

But day by day, that void is turning into a legacy.

"Other than the fact he is not with us, a lot of good has come out of it," said Richard's dad, John Taylor.

Which is true, because since John and his wife Gaynor started selling Richard Taylor wristbands in July, the month of Richard's birthday, a massive 10,000 has been collected - money that will eventually be spent on giving the Knap Skate Park a much-needed makeover.

Gaynor explained how Richard and his best friend unsuccessfully campaigned for a new skate park in 1996.

So it seemed apt for his parents to raise money for the park after his death.

John and Gaynor are aware that they have to raise a staggering 25,000 to enable the makeover.

But having raised 10,000 in just a few months, they are sure they will reach their target.

The wristbands will continue to be sold in many locations in Barry and can be purchased via email, at richardtaylorbands@btinternet.com for 3 each.

Gaynor has sent out batches to people who knew Richard in Australia and America.

"He was known throughout the world," she said.

"People loved him a lot and he seems to have left his mark."

A Richard Taylor Memorial Gig, featuring The Love Gods and Pinch, is being held at the NCL Arena, Newport, on Friday, following a Richard Taylor Memorial Skate Jam at the city's Skate Extreme.

Last year, a similar night of events fetched 1,800, which John and Gaynor hope to raise this year.

There will be the chance for people to register as an Organ Donor on the night. Richard carried an organ donation card, and after his death, he managed to give six people a renewed life.

When Richard's parents have raised the 25,000 and got the skate park up and running, they then plan to establish the Richard Taylor Memorial Fund as an official charity. The charity will raise money to send promising young skaters to a skate camp in America.

"We want to get skating back on the map for Richard," said Gaynor.