SKATERS, bladers and BMX-ers have welcomed the country's first extreme sports development worker in to their midst.

Jan Johnson has taken up the post created in Wigan in response to a huge demand from youngsters for extreme sports facilities in the area.

Jan, who has been involved with extreme sports for the past five years, will consult with young people, map their needs, develop sites and organise events and training courses.

She said: "I know how important these sports can be to people and how they can help young people to develop new interests and skills."

One of her first tasks will be to meet with skaters, bladers and BMX-ers to get their views on the plans for the £80,000 re-vamp of a skate/BMX facility at Walmesley Park, Ince.

Young people can contact Jan on 01942 828515 Mondays-Wednesdays.