Poulner teen Finlay McCall celebrates imminent skate ramp installation at North Poulner Play Area after spearheading fundraising drives

A POULNER teen has shared his excitement at the imminent development of a skate ramp at his local park, for which he spearheaded fundraising drives.

Upgraded from a quarter-pipe to a half-pipe, the structure is set to be installed at North Poulner Play Area in the summer – over a year after 14-year-old Finlay McCall brought the proposal to town councillors.

By June this year a total of £11,830 had been raised towards the project in an achievement described as “amazing” at a recent recreation, leisure and open spaces committee meeting.

As reported in the A&T, Finlay had shared his concerns at a shortage of facilities at the site for him and his peers to enjoy outdoor sports in March 2023.

Supported by the committee, the Ringwood School pupil launched an online GoFundMe page which collected £500 towards the project.

His campaign inspired donations of £1,000 each from Ringwood Round Table and Ringwood Carnival, along with £250 from Ringwood Rotary.

These were backed up by a New Forest District Council community grant of around £6,000, and a £3,100 grant from the National Round Table.

With committee members having since agreed a wider ramp would be safer and more fun, efforts are continuing to raise the extra £4,100.

Thanking the council members and fundraisers, Finlay told the A&T: “I’m pleased with what we have achieved so far with the project.

“It’s exciting how the concept has grown and developed as time has gone by.

“It’s looking like the ramp will be a great asset to the community.

His proud dad Andrew added: “I’m pleased that Finlay’s initial idea has been able to get this far and that so many local people and community groups have been so encouraging and supportive.

“It is also great that Finlay has been involved throughout the process.”

Cllr Rae Frederick told the committee meeting moves were being made to ensure the ramp complies with the council’s play equipment policy and safety standards rules.

The ramp’s supply and installation is expected to cost £15,940, plus VAT.