A FORMER Portishead councillor will be pulling on his running shoes to take part in a marathon to raise money for the town's proposed new skatepark. Jon Gething, who did not stand in May's elections, will be pounding the streets of Bristol in the city's h

A FORMER Portishead councillor will be pulling on his running shoes to take part in a marathon to raise money for the town's proposed new skatepark.Jon Gething, who did not stand in May's elections, will be pounding the streets of Bristol in the city's half marathon this Sunday to raise money towards the cost of a new skatepark in the town.He is hoping to raise more than £1,000 for the project as a result of his run. Mr Gething said: "In March I ran my first half marathon in Bath and raised more than £300 from friends and family."With the help of the readers of the North Somerset Times I hope I can raise more than £1,000 this time."The Portishead Skatepark Project (PSP) group is working hard to find a site in Portishead but even before any construction begins we will have to spend significant sums on professional design and presentation materials to explain the project and persuade town and district councillors to let it go forward."The PSP is currently considering a number of sites in the town to put a skateboard park including the Lake Grounds. Another site at Harbour Road next to the Parish Wharf Leisure Centre was also put forward but rejected by council planners.Mr Gething said: "If people would like to demonstrate their support by sponsoring me for say £5 then valuable funds can be raised for the project and a major statement of support given to the project. This will help to persuade local councillors to get behind the project and realise a much-needed facility for the town's young skaters, BMX riders and scooter users."Anyone wanting to sponsor Mr Gething can call 01275 848025 or email portisheadskatepark@mac.com