A nine-year-old boy born with a missing forearm is on a mission to keep his skatepark clean.

When Colin Milek first moved to Swanley less than two years ago it was initially hard for him to make friends with most time spent under lockdown restrictions.

But all that changed when he first graced the run-down skate park at St Mary's Recreation Ground.

Colin was born missing part of his left arm. However, he has no trouble showing off tricks on his scooter and mixing with older teens who have been showing him the ropes.

"They talk to me about how to be better at scooting," says Colin. "I enjoy going down the ramps. I go really fast. "

Miraculously, he even finds time to do a spot of litterpicking to keep the park looking spick and span.

Mum Kinga Milek says she feels really proud of his efforts to help the environment.

"Swanley's Skatepark is Colin's absolutely favourite place at the moment," said the mum-of-two.

"We only moved to Swanley less than two years ago and most of that time was under some lockdown restrictions."

She added: "It was really hard for Colin to meet any local friends. But thanks to the skatepark that changed.

"Colin feels very welcome and safe here. Some teenagers even took time to talk to him and did not treat him like he was a little child which helped him grow more confident."

Earlier this month former Apprentice contestant and businessman JD O'Brien launched a crowdfunder to upgrade the tired facilities at the skatepark.

JD, who lives in Tonbridge, hopes to source enough funding to "build something special" and offer workshop and mentoring opportunities to youngsters.

He believes a project of this kind could be transformative for the area and help alleviate some of the mental pressures faced by young people.

"So many studies from all over the world illustrate the positive outcomes that come from having a skate park," he said.

The dad-of-three is also encouraging those unable to back the project financially to get involved with questionnaires to give them a "bit of clout".

"We want to set up a big programme so everyone can use it," he added.

"We've got really good people involved. Now we just need a big community drive."

One boy JD has been speaking with who is eager to make a difference and see improvements made is Colin.

As a nurse his mum Kinga says she can see the advantages skateparks and other community places have for children and young adult's mental health.

"Places like this are very important," she said. "Teenagers don't want to go anywhere with parents and want their own space.

"I feel like every child needs something to enjoy, especially teenagers, they are a forgotten group sometimes."

The mum-of-two added: "I hope the project will gather sufficient support to go ahead.

"I want to feel proud living here and for this town to grow and improve."

"Colin would love a new skatepark to be a bit bigger so there is a place for everyone."

For more information on the project and details of future fundraising activities click here.

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