DAREDEVIL youngsters who have turned a church roof into a skateboard park could be killed, officials fear.

Council chiefs say they have had complaints from residents who fear the teenagers may slip and call through the roof. Now they are facing calls to do something about the youths who skate on St Luke's Church roof, in Billingham.

Councillor Colin Leckonby said: "The roof has a sheer drop and the highest point is about 20ft off the ground. It could be extremely dangerous if they were to fall through.

"I would like to ask parents to make sure their children are not doing this as I am worried someone may be killed."

Special climb-proof paint has been used on drainpipes around the building to stop children climbing up.

But even that has not deterred several youngsters who were spotted again last week.

Coun Leckonby said:"I am looking for ideas from people as to where they would like to see a skate park in the town.

"A number of years ago a ramp for skateboarders was built on land near Rievaulx Avenue. Hopefully we can see more of these, which the youngsters can use safely."

Planning officers from Stockton Borough Council are looking for a suitable site for a skateboard park in the town.

A skateboard park has been included in the plans to improve John Whitehead Park as part of the regeneration of Billingham town centre.