A new chapter was written in the colourful, incident-packed history of Malmesbury Abbey as it echoed to the hollers, screeches and laughter of hundreds of skaters.

Now for the seventh year, the town’s 12th century former Benedictine Abbey will again be transformed into a skatepark.

Preparations are about to get under way to convert the interior beneath the abbey’s vaulted stone ceiling into a half-term haven for schoolchildren and others of varying ages and abilities.

The annual abbey skate-park is a collaboration between the Malmesbury Abbey congregation and the Nailsea-based Christian Skaters UK organisation.

Since it began in 2009, Abbey Skate has become one of the West Country’s premier youth events.

Last year, more than 600 participants tested the ramps, quarter pipes, grinding rails and trick boxes.

The Curate of Malmesbury Abbey, the Rev John Monaghan, got scooting to promote the event.

He said: “This year’s Abbey Skate is a tribute to the commitment of so many volunteers, inspired to serve the local community and to show God’s love and hospitality to everyone who comes through the Abbey door.

“The Abbey Skate is an action-packed three days, with age- appropriate skate and scoot sessions for people of all abilities.”

The three-day event opens at 10am on Wednesday, February 18, and will include demonstrations from professional skaters and scooterers.

It will culminate in a competition on Friday night, with live music from Wiltshire singer-songwriter Emily McGrory.

For information, or to book, visit www.malmesburyabbey.com/skate