CLOSED-circuit television cameras have helped stop vandals at a skate-park.

When the facility, behind Ripon Leisure Centre, off Dallamires Lane, was built, there were problems with vandalism by youngsters who were not using the park.

But now Harrogate Borough Council, which provided and operates the park, says it has been a big success.

It says the park was particularly well-used through the winter months, with big attendances during school holidays, after school and at weekends.

With CCTV keeping a watchful eye on the site, the council is looking ahead to a busy summer.

Meanwhile, a venue for a replacement skateboard park in Harrogate is still being sought after a site near the town's Hydro swimming pool was closed last year after youngsters wanting to use the site said they had been bullied by older youths.