‘Unexpected emergency’ at Didcot skatepark festival

The Summer of Skate came to Didcot skatepark on Monday, July 27, the free summer event hosted by Swindon-based ATB Shop where youngsters can learn to skate, take part in competitions and play games.

Thames Valley Police said officers attended the children’s festival to support and engage with attendees, but faced an ‘unexpected emergency’.

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A ‘rapidly spreading’ wildfire broke out near Didcot skatepark, forcing officers to put a hold on the event while the area was evacuated.

Police (Image: North Yorkshire Police)

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended to get the blaze under control, which ‘posed a risk to nearby footpaths, recreational areas and railway infrastructure’ due to exceptionally dry ground conditions.

A spokesperson for the police said: “Our team attended the fantastic Summer of Skate events in Cholsey and Didcot, speaking with young people, families and local residents.

“Unfortunately, our visit to Didcot skatepark became rather more exciting than expected when a wildfire broke out nearby.

“Working alongside Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, the area was evacuated whilst firefighters tackled the blaze.

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“Thankfully, the fire was contained before it could spread further.”

It is one of many wildfires, crop and field fires that have been plaguing Oxfordshire in recent weeks, with a heightened risk due to a long period of hot, dry weather.

On Wednesday (July 29) the Environment Agency officially declared the county as facing a drought, along with most of the rest of the south of England.