HUNDREDS of youngsters turned up at the opening of a skateboard and music shop to meet their idols.
Skateboard professionals Dan Cates, Benson, Nick Zorlac and Steak of the Death skateboard team were the main attraction at the launch of Roll ‘n’ Rock in Tring on Saturday.
The shop on Western Road has been opened by music teacher Neil Harris, who has been running Project Rock Education in the town for four years.
He said: “Skateboarding and music are both things I’m interested in so it made sense to open the shop and invite my pro skater friends to come to the launch.”
Fans arrived three hours before the doors opened to make sure they could have their boards signed by the famous riders.
Neil said: “As soon as I opened the door about 50 kids came charging in and when they saw the Death Skaters arriving at 3.30pm they all ran outside to meet them.
“About 200 people visited throughout the day so I made a lot more sales than I expected to.
“This is just the start for me. I want this to be a cool place for youngsters to hang out and I’m also looking into opening rehearsal rooms.”
Neil and his family have moved in to the flat above the shop and Neil continues to run music lessons, which he now takes from the shop’s converted basement.
He said: “Watch this space because I’ve planned a second opening for the shop and Rick Parfitt of Status Quo has agreed to attend.”