Skateboarders in Abingdon are rolling closer towards their goal of getting their own skate park.

Members of the Vale of White Horse District Council praised the initiative taken by skaters, but said the young people will have to wait at least a year.

Two teenagers, Jonathon Wyborn and Richard Bolton, presented their case at a meeting of the council's executive and were congratulated on their campaign by the leader of the council, Paul Bizzell.

Jonathon, 13, from Alexander Close, is one of the main organisers of a petition signed by 200 skateboard and in-line skaters. He told councillors: "There are a lot of enthusiasts but we have no proper facility in Abingdon.

"We have a lot of support and we're prepared to help with design, plans and fundraising."

His friend Richard, also 13, from Carse Close, said: "Abingdon has a new leisure centre and there's Tilsley Park for athletics, but there's nowhere for skateboarders.

"We use streets outside our homes and sometimes annoy residents, drivers and pedestrians.

"We also use the BMX track in Radley Road, but the surface isn't suitable."

After hearing their statement Mr Bizzell said: "It's good to see you getting involved to make something happen. We want to find a way to progress your plan and welcome your offer of help.

"We need to consult with users rather than conjure up something ourselves, and your knowledge will be helpful."

Mr Bizzell gave the petitioners a commitment that the council would give their request a sympathetic and serious examination but warned them to be patient.

He added: "We have no specific money in the budget for this year but budgets are beginning to be prepared for next year."

After the meeting Jonathon said: "We were very pleased with the response. They're taking us seriously.

"There is not council money available at the moment but hopefully there will be next year. We will have to be patient."

Richard said: "In the meantime we will continue our campaign and look at areas where there are proper skateboard facilities so that we can give the council has much help as we can."

Abingdon district councillor Janet Morgan, who is supporting the campaigners, said another, similar petition organised by older teenagers was circulating in the town.