BMX bikers and boarders have moved a step closer to using a new skate park as work finally started on a £170,000 venue.

Groundworks have begun on the Lewes Skate Park after news of a £47,350 grant from Sport England, which will be used alongside other fund-raising collections to get the project up and running.

AMB Sports Limited will be excavating the groundworks and laying the tarmac in preparation for the arrival of new skate ramps and the park is due to be completed in August.

A team from skate park design company White Skate won the approval of enthusiasts in Lewes with their plans for the Malling Recreation Ground.

After consultation with local young people, a favourite design was chosen which includes skate ramps manufactured in Germany, which will be used in the UK for the first time.

The skate park will also contain a "graffiti wall" so youngsters can demonstrate their artistic skills.

The Onyx Environmental Trust awarded Lewes District Council a grant of £50,000 through the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme.

Margaret Cobbold, general manager of the Onyx Environmental Trust said: "The scheme was introduced to help those living close to landfill sites improve their community and recreational facilities.

"The Trust is delighted to be involved in such a worthwhile project which will bring so much enjoyment to the young people of Lewes."

Sport England has agreed to support the project, with the remaining money being raised from a number of other sources.

Padraig Herlihy, head of strategic planning and partnerships at Sport England South East, said: "The skate park ensures young people are physically active while they have fun in a way that fits in with their lifestyle."