RUSH Skatepark in Stroud, which was used by Olympic gold medallist Charlotte Worthington, held its final event on Sunday.

The Brimscombe Port based skatepark, one of Stroud’s most popular sports venues, is now closed.

In an emotional farewell note released today, the Rush Skatepark team have thanked their customers 'for being part of something special'.

And they said they were 'overwhelmed by the outpouring of love' that has come their way over the last few weeks.

In a post on social media, owners Jerry and Michelle Norman said: "The outpouring of love received over the last few weeks, especially over our last weekend was overwhelming and truly humbling."

They also reflected on their 'rollercoaster ride' over the last eight and a half years and said they hoped to be back 'bigger and better' in the future.

They said: "It has certainly been a rollercoaster ride, especially over the last five years with the prospect of having to close the doors due to the redevelopment of the site, to having to close due to COVID restrictions. However, our customers and particularly our staff, stuck with us throughout this time.

"No one believed in us when we opened those red reception doors and many only gave us a couple of years, but we proved everyone wrong and we made a word championship park.

"Some our events have been legendary and will never be forgotten - we held Scootfest in 2014, 2015 and 2019, Moongoose Jam, School Games, ISA Scooter World Championships, Grit Academies, Australian Pro Series – there are just too many to mention."

They also highlighted that Rush was not just a skatepark, but also a community space where a wide variety of events were held, including: inclusive disabled sessions, fashion shows, fashion shoots, film festivals, product campaign shoots, networking events including GFirst LEP, a concert from LZ7, a cross-fit championship, charity coffee mornings, and more.

They concluded: "We are going to miss our fabulous customers both young and old and thank you for the good times and we hope we have made a difference to your lives and hopefully we will be back bigger and better."

The skatepark's tenancy ended on Sunday, as Stroud District Council moves on plans for the development of the port, which were drawn up before their contract with Rush was signed.

If you would like to support the Friends of Rush Skate Park who are fundraising towards a new indoor skatepark in Stroud district, visit: bit.ly/2W61mQN

And if you know of any alternative sites for Rush, email hello@wecanmove.net