A SKATE park with Olympic ambitions is already proving to be a hit.

More than 8,000 people from Britain and Europe have visited Middlesbrough's Prissick Plaza in the three months it has been open.

Extreme sports expert Dean Broderick has been appointed to work alongside development officer Tim Watton to coach youngsters in skateboarding, bmx and inline skating.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, executive member for community safety and leisure with Middlesbrough Council, said yesterday: "We have a goal of Olympic recognition for skating - and a world-class training ground to help local people compete in 2012."

Mr Broderick and Mr Watton are setting up a Get fit with Extreme Sports campaign, entailing working closely with schools, youth groups, community, sports and recreation centres.