A STATE-OF-THE-ART skatepark in Brimscombe has launched a fundraising drive to collect £10,000 to build a viewing platform.

The platform will allow friends, family and skating enthusiasts at RUSH Skatepark to watch the jumps and tricks performed by skaters and bikers with a better and safer viewpoint.

A spokesperson for RUSH said: “The viewing platform has always been part of our long term plan, but with help we can make it happen now.

“It will enable supporters to fully share in our riders' moments, be part of their journey and enjoy their achievements as they happen.

“Our riders deserve an audience.”

If the fundraising drive manages to gather more than £10,000 owners of RUSH Skatepark, Jerry and Michelle Norman, will develop their supporters Snug - or workspace for parents - and bring big changes to the cafe as well.

RUSH is a family run skatepark in Damien Hirst's former 40,000 sqft workspace.

The park is the brainchild of husband and wife team Jerry and Michelle conceived after their then 11-year-old son Josh caught the BMX bug.

As a family they spent their weekends travelling up and down the country in search of the perfect park.

“A lot of the good ones were up North,” said Jerry.

“The quality was mixed and service and atmosphere was often lacking.

“In the end we felt we could do a better job ourselves, and provide a world class facility for riders, their family and friends.”

Situated in one giant hall, the park is one of the largest in Europe.

RUSH have until Tuesday, October 20 to find £10,000. Because of the way the crowd funding website works, if Jerry and Michelle don't hit the target they will not receive any of the money pledged.

Building the 25 metre long viewing platform will also allow RUSH to host world championships, action sport showcases and professional and amateur competitions.

To contribute go to http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/rushFUNder