YOUNG riders and skaters are celebrating the opening of the long-awaited external ramps at the Legacy XS Centre, in Richmond Park, Benfleet.

More than 100 young people arrived to try out the new large outside ramps, which have doubled the riding area at the skatepark.

Keeley Dobbs, manager of the centre, said: "We were really pleased with how many people came along.

"We saw some great riding and skating and believe the new outside facilities have added another string to our bow.

"The centre already boasted 4,500sq ft of indoor ramps and the new area increases this to around 10,000sq ft.

"The beauty of having an area inside and out is people now have the choice to use either area depending on weather conditions.

"The outside ramps are also considerably larger than inside, which means more advanced riders and skaters can stretch themselves."

The Legacy XS centre in Rich-mond Avenue, now boasts a computer room for online gaming and internet access, a cafe serving hot and cold food and drinks, pool tables and Sky TV for watching live sports games.

The opening celebrations for the new ramps included a DJ who played for the assembled crowd and allowed youngsters to have a go themselves.

Matt Rose, deputy manager, said: "We are convinced we have lots to offer to the young people of Castle Point."