Skating and riding in a swimming pool has always fascinated me, probably because the opportunity doesn’t often present itself. It’s something that you see all the time coming out of warmer climates, with no shortage of pools. Over here in the U.K however, it’s a different story… Outdoor pools are something of a rarity. If you do stumble across one, chances are it’s going to be full of over 50s doing water aerobics. The majority of pools here in the U.K are built indoors, making access to ride and skate a challenge, probably a wet one too.
Words and photos by Eckers
Video by Tad / BNGBNGMCR
I like exploring old places. Last year I decided it was time to find a pool in this country that could be skated, rode and where I could shoot a decent set of flicks. Local crew BNGBNGMCR were also keen so it was a case of asking around and looking for the right location. Around December the perfect spot presented itself on a silver platter. A local pool, without banks or transitions but full of wood. After finding our way in, work began on clearing the spot while avoiding the pigeon shit.
BNGBNG organ grinder Tad, in his infinite wisdom, even decided to have crack at cleaning the place after a heavy night at the pub. This wouldn’t be so bad if you could just walk in, but you couldn’t just walk in… Access was via a sketchy climb onto a corrugated metal roof then through a minefield of holes. Thankfully, Tad survived and somehow made the pool a little cleaner. Sadly, after multiple visits and the near death of Tad, the spot was purchased and locked off for good. We were forced to abandon our plans.
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