Rockers back skaters’ fight (From Stourbridge News)

Rockers back skaters’ fight

5:51pm Monday 8th January 2007 in Local

STOURBRIDGE rock band Midas are organising a fundraising gig dubbed Skate Aid to help save Stourbridge's struggling skate park.

The five-piece were shocked to hear that Ramparts will be forced to close if founder Lois Bramall cannot raise £50,000 in rent by the end of the month.

So they have rallied round and organised a benefit gig to help raise the money to try and save the popular park, based underneath the Bell Street multi-story car park.

Midas front-man Kris Lloyd said: "The Ramparts facility is a great asset to our area. So many of our fans, especially those under 18, use it at weekends. It's a safe and fun place for them to meet and enjoy themselves.

"So many people are quick to judge young people as trouble makers for hanging around the town centre. Is it really any wonder when the local council doesn't want to support great facilities which encourage kids to get off the street, to undertake exercise, and generally keep out of trouble?"

Ramparts owner Lois Bramall faces court action unless she hands over the £50,000 rent arrears she owes to Dudley Council by the end of January.

She claims the situation arose partly because council officers failed to bill her properly.

However councillor Charles Fraser Macnamara, Dudley Council's cabinet member for leisure and culture, told the News ex-Lib Dem councillor Lois had been billed as usual and had been given ample opportunity to pay back the money.

The Skate Aid gig takes place at Ramparts, Bell Street, on Saturday February 3 from 3pm.

Midas, who are set to release their debut single Don't Dance next month, will be the headline act.

The event will also feature a host of other local bands.

All the proceeds will go the Save Our Skatepark fund, set up by Ramparts members.

Midas frontman Kris added: "I really can't understand Councillor Macnamara's attitude. It seems Dudley Council are more interested in lining their pockets rather than actually supporting positive activities for young people in their local area."

Tickets, priced £3, are available from Ramparts or from any of the bands involved.

Another Skate Aid gig has also just been organised for Friday January 19, featuring Stourbridge band Frontline.

To support the Save Our Skatepark campaign contact Lois on 01384 345800 or go to www.skateramparts.co.uk