Mr Smith Goes To Westminster

12.31.00pm GMT Fri 2nd Mar 2007

East Sheen resident, Guy Smith has taken his case for a Richmond-based dirt biking track to Westminster.

Guy Smith, Susan Kramer & Marc Cranfield-Adams

At a meeting at the House of Commons with local MP Susan Kramer the 14 year old pupil of Latimer School presented a costed proposal prepared by him and his friends. The idea was originally put to Richmond Council by Guy last October, with the support of his local Councillor Marc Cranfield-Adams. With spring around the corner, and the summer to come, Guy and his friends are anxious that the Council is not moving as quickly as it could be.

"I'm a 14 year old boy living in East sheen who is very into biking. It is the one thing all my mates and I love. We are mostly into dirt jumping (jumps made from dirt). However these 'facilities' are very scarce. We have to travel many miles just to get to little riding spots. We are even travelling out of London to Sandown or Bracknell for example, as we are desperate to ride somewhere" said Guy.

Dirt biking is a sport which is growing in popularity. The bikers use specially designed bikes to ride and jump over purpose built jumps of varying heights. These range from small jumps of a foot or so for beginners to larger jumps of 4 feet or more for advances bikers. Jumps, normally 4 or 5 in a run, are arranged which the biker jumps in sequence. Bikers wear specially designed helmets and protective leg wear.

MP Susan Kramer added, "I must congratulate Guy for coming to see and me and presenting the case for a dirt biking track personally. It is far better to take the initiative rather than just to complain. The proposal is well thought out and coherent and the boys deserve credit for taking such a professional approach to this matter. Our young people need places to go and have fun as well as develop their skills."

North Richmond Ward Councillor Marc Cranfield-Adams, who accompanied Guy to Westminster, said he was keen to see the Council develop a site for the young people. "The Council has now been considering the proposal for almost six months and has been investigating a number of sites. However, I share the anxiety of the lads that time is marching on. I hope we can have something in place for the summer at least."