Volunteers from the Desborough Youth Action Group are celebrating after receiving the money from the Midlands Co-op Society.

They approached the Co-op for help with funding for ongoing repair costs at the skatepark, which was built in 1999 at Desborough Leisure Centre in The Hawthorns.

The skatepark, which is made up of 10 ramps and a large half-pipe, has been a target for vandals on a number of occasions.

In June, following the latest incident, there were fears that the facility would have to close because of the persistent problem, with concerns over funding.

However, now the group will use the money from the Co-op's Making a Difference Community Dividend awards to pay for essential repairs and for first-aid training.

Chairman of the group, Belinda Humfrey, said the repairs are for the benefit of those 11 to 18-year-olds who respect the skatepark.She said: "Unfortunately, the skatepark has been vandalised on a number of occasions, spoiling the enjoyment of many local youngsters who, from time to time, can't use the park until repairs have been made.

"We approached Midlands Co-op for funds to help us carry out the work and additional first aid training and were delighted to hear that our application has been granted."

Cyrrhian Macrae from Midlands Co-op said: "It is very disappointing to hear that this excellent facility has been subject to repeated acts of vandalism.

"Members of the Desborough Youth Action Group put a great deal of effort into securing the venue for local teenagers, providing them with a safe and enjoyable place to spend their spare time.

"I hope that our donation goes some way to alleviating the stress caused by the vandals and hope that the group's plans for increased security measures come to fruition."

In June, the group spoke about the possibility of charging skaters to use the park in order to secure its future.