Today, we are chatting with theSecret Skate Society UK. In this interview, you will learn about the group's beginnings, their charity trail skates, and how new friendships are formed through roller skating.
Could you kindly introduce yourself and the group to us?
We are the Secret Skate Society UK, located in the East Midlands. We are a collective of quad and inline skaters of varying skill levels, covering park, rink, and trail skating. Our main admin team includes our co-founder Katt Finch-Davies, Laura Webster, Duane Brough, and Katy Marsden-Barrow.
How did you each first get into skating (whether roller, inline, or quad)?
Some of our members have been skating for many years, while others began during the pandemic, a pivotal moment when many of our members took up skating.
When did the group start, and how did the idea for the Secret Skate Society come about?
The group started in 2022. Many of us used to skate with a wonderful group called the Derby City Rollers. They disbanded due to work and life commitments, but we decided to carry on the great work they had started. The name was inspired by the original venue's hidden location that only those in the know could find. Now, the secret is about discovering the details of the next event, including when and where it will happen!
The group keeps expanding. Is it open to everyone (all ages, abilities, genders)?
Definitely! Everyone is invited to join (though the chats are restricted to those 18+). We have an open-door policy with one rule: 'Be Kind or Be Gone' — negativity is not tolerated in our group.
For those reading who aren't in the group, where are you based?
We are based in the East Midlands, primarily operating in Nottingham and Derby, though we frequently travel across the UK for events.
How is the skate scene in your area?
It's fantastic! We're lucky to have several excellent local indoor and outdoor skateparks, some of which are free! Our region also boasts beautiful scenic trail routes and multiple indoor roller rinks.
What do you find most rewarding about being part of the group?
Finding a welcoming community can sometimes be challenging, and we've all made many friends through skating. Our most significant achievement is creating a safe space where individuals can be themselves without fear of judgement.
Do you feel safe within the skate community, and how?
Absolutely 100%! Fortunately, our group is filled with like-minded individuals who respect each other.
You've recently hosted charity skate events. Could you share some details about these and whom you were raising funds for?
The charity trail skate kicked off a month-long fundraising campaign for Mind, during which we raised £192.50! We are excited about organising a Christmas charity event to further support a cause that is very dear to us.
What distinguishes quad skates from inline skates?
Quad skates have wheels arranged in pairs side by side, whereas inline skates have wheels arranged in a single line. While the appearance is clear, the choice often depends on personal preference and past experiences; for instance, those who have ice-skated before might prefer inline skates.
Could you tell us about the different nights you organise, such as trail skates and skateparks?
Tuesday evenings – Park skating (multiple locations to select from, often Asylum)
Wednesday – Trail skating (either Derby or Nottingham route)
Thursday – Rink skating (typically at SkatelandUK or Rollerworld)
Nevertheless, people are constantly active in the WhatsApp chats, arranging meet-ups among themselves.
What new skate tricks are you currently practicing?
Within our group, we have various levels of skating skills, but we always support and encourage each other when someone successfully lands a new trick!
You have a special event on the 23rd of September. Could you tell us more about it?
This event is a pop-up roller disco hosted by Shoot-the-Duck. We are supporting it by providing stewards and first aiders. The event will take place at Sneinton Market in Nottingham.
If you could offer any advice to beginners getting into skating, what would it be?
Keep your knees bent and your eyes forward! And always wear your pads! We’ve witnessed some nasty falls both in person and online. Stay safe and always ask for help when trying something new. Take your time, don’t be shy, as no one judges (we all started somewhere).
How did you all meet? How did the members discover the group?
Our main admin team all got to know each other through skating. We’ve become such good friends over the time we’ve known each other. Members mostly learned about the group through social media or word of mouth, and every new member is warmly welcomed!
Is there anyone you’d like to give a shoutout to?
We would like to give a big shoutout to Dean and Jodie for all their support this year, as well as to past Committee members from last year’s team.
We would also like to give a shoutout to our regular venues:
SkatelandUK (Nottingham)
Rollerworld (Derby)
Asylum Skate Park (Sutton-in-Ashfield)
The House Skate Park (Sheffield)
