Imerys British Lithium Supports TR7 Skatepark Programme for Young People

Roche-based TR7 Skatepark has teamed up with Imerys British Lithium to launch a new programme this autumn aimed at helping young people from the china clay villages get into skateboarding.

The £5,000 donation from Imerys British Lithium’s community fund will enable 22 young people to access the indoor skate facilities at Victoria Business Park in Roche.

Breaking Down Barriers

TR7 and the Imerys British Lithium team will work with local schools to identify those who would most benefit from the opportunity. Each participant will be enrolled in a mentorship programme and receive:

• Five one-to-one skateboarding lessons with a TR7 coach

• A TR7 stamp card, worth £50, offering free access to five open skate sessions

• A complete kit from Enuff Skateboards and Rekd Protection, including skateboard, helmet and pads

The programme is designed to remove financial barriers while supporting young people to build skills, confidence and positive routines in a safe, welcoming space.

“A Real and Lasting Impact”

Martina Biquard, co-founder of TR7 Skatepark, said:

“This funding will have a real and lasting impact. Many young people in this area face barriers to accessing activities like skateboarding. By removing the cost of coaching, equipment and access, we can offer a pathway to improved confidence, routine, and mental wellbeing.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Imerys British Lithium for recognising the value of this work and helping us remove the barriers that many local families face.”

Looking Ahead

Edwin Berends, project director for Imerys British Lithium, added:

“The team at TR7 does an incredible job of coaching and developing young people, so we wanted to support this work and enable the team to reach out to more local kids who would not otherwise be able to benefit.

“We hope we can continue this work every year, and then have a real impact on the local area. We plan to offer some extra help in the way of visits to our lithium plant and mine site, maybe even work experience and career guidance for the group.”

Getting Involved

Any local groups interested in collaborating with Imerys British Lithium, or educators wishing to nominate students, can contact jane.devereux@imerys.com