Ref. 29417-03Disco is now even cooler than it ever was at least for the hundreds of teenagers who go to the Link Centre each week.ANTHONY OSBORNE reports

TEENAGERS from across Swindon are swapping their Friday nights in front of the TV to take to the ice.

Every Friday evening around 600 teenagers and adults have been enjoying a special Friday night disco on ice at the Link Centre in West Swindon.

Since the start of the discos in Novem-ber, the number of people has soared from 50 to an average of around 600 a night.

"I don't think this is a new trend but the increase in numbers we have seen has been amazing and it is not just the same faces we are seeing so word is getting around," said Alan Seabrook, Link Centre ice business manager.

Sessions on the ice last two hours, and all are monitored by a number of ice stewards experienced skaters who are there to look out for anyone having problems.

Marcel Douglas, 14, from Grange Park, regularly attends the skate disco.

He said: "It's great fun to come down here on a Friday night and meet up with friends. We have a great time and it is better than playing out in the streets or watching TV."

Carly Moore, 14, from Freshbrook, was equally enthusiastic.

"It is a good place for a good time. The disco makes it great to meet friends."

Parents also agreed the disco was a great idea.

Colin Webb, 60, from Somerford Keynes, said: "I wish there had been something like this when I was younger. It keeps kids off the streets and gives them a bit of exercise."

The disco is just one of several schemes being launched by the council to improve facilities for young people. A skateboard park is set to follow in the spring.

Councillor Justin Tomlinson (Con-Abbey Meads), lead member for culture and recreation, said: "One of my first tasks as lead member was to go out and listen to what the children of Swindon wanted, and this is one of the activities they wanted.

"They have chosen the music and we have a DJ who plays what they want to hear.

"We have a zero-tolerance attitude to bad behaviour so everyone who comes can have a great time and parents know that their children are safe, it's good exercise, and it's not a school night so homework is unaffected."

The ice disco admission is £6.70 for an adult and £4.90 for children. Swindon Card holders pay £5.20 for adults and £3.90 for children. You can hire skates but most people take their own.

To find out more about the ice disco nights call the Link Centre on 01793 445566.

Anthony Osborne