YOUNGSTERS in Torpoint are still campaigning to get a BMX track in the town more than 12 months since they started working towards it.

The planned track in Thanckes Park would be on a section of unkept land adjoining the current skatepark. The land is owned by Cornwall Council, but leased by Torpoint Town Council.

Youth worker Sue Wafer is working with the teenagers and is hoping to submit a funding bid for a grant of £50,000 for the BMX track project.

The town council has now received correspondence and plans from Cornwall Council showing that they want them to give up their lease and turn the area into an open space. There was no mention on the plans of a proposed BMX track.

Cornwall Council also pointed out that if there was a BMX track it would cost in the region of £5-8,000 to maintain annually.

Spokesperson for the teenagers Rob White (17) said: 'We want a BMX track not only for ourselves, but for younger children. It will not only keep kids off the streets, but help us excel in a sport we enjoy and help us to keep fit.'

Sue Wafer said: 'The young people have worked really hard raising money and seeking support from local organisations and businesses.

'We need Cornwall Council to help us move forward with this project and recognise these young people.

Torpoint councillor Eric Parkin is supporting the youngsters in their bid for the BMX track. He said: 'The young people are doing a wonderful job with trying to promote the BMX park and have received £500 from Cornwall councillor Brian Hobbs and £300 from CHAT (Community Health Around Torpoint). With this support and their hard work we hope the park can go ahead.'

A spokesperson for Cornwall Council said: 'The council's Environmental Project Team is working with a range of stakeholders to prepare a holistic plan for the entire site.

'They are intending to undertake community consultation early in the New Year, to properly consider all aspirations for the entire park, and expect that the proposal for a BMX track will be part of this process.'