UK & Ireland

An urban graffiti covered cave inhabited by boys striving to prove themselves in their own way. This is an area of London rarely seen by the tourist but it has become a Mecca for hoodies on skateboards and BMX cycles.

Kids just being kids

Rap music bellows out from ghetto-blasters and this adds to the almost feral atmosphere but the real surprise is the crowds of all ages that stand around watching and applauding. Appreciation is shown by whistles and shouts and the boys play it cool but their pride shines out for all to see. Adults wince when the kids fall but the small boys dream of joining in.

Temporary ramps are improvised out of bits of wood – concrete plinths are used as ramps for takeoff and there is a sense of purpose amongst the contenders. They are there to prove themselves and this is their turf. They know the moves and judge each other by rules which are inexplicable to the majority watching.

Pop art covers the walls

Thrills and spills seem the order of the day and the pop art covering the walls gives voice to the urban culture these children understand. It is a place to celebrate achievements not understood by adults.

Letting off steam

In spite of this it seems a safe place for the kids to let off steam and be good at something. Children who are failing at school can gain self esteem in this arena. This is somewhere they can be themselves for a few hours and where they can excel and show what they can do.

Using energy in a positive way

Pent up energy is released performing such tricks as frontside half-cab heel flips; backside big spin flips; late kickflips; The Ollie Impossible and double flip varials. Each move carefully practiced away from the public and the eyes of their peers. Many moves can be combined to form more complex flip tricks to impress the combatants.

More places like this are needed

Long may this urban space be available to the youth of the area giving them a voice at a time when they find it difficult to express themselves. Concrete walls are put to good use painted in garish graffiti and scuffed concrete steps and plinths are a small price to pay. These kids are harming no-one and power to them for using their initiative to create a playground they want and use.

Long may if remain

Not long ago the South Bank centre was trying to close this area down – they wanted to “clean up” the area but the support that the youngsters got from the ordinary man in the street meant that this move was put on hold. Let’s hope it remains an urban sanctuary enjoyed by audiences and performers alike.