Ref. 29483-11An interest in skating can often lead to bigger things.

Lesley Norfolk-Pearce, who lives in Lydiard Millicent, has been an ice-skating coach for around 30 years. She said the Friday night's events were a good way for Swindon's youngsters to find their feet in skating.

She said: "We tend to see interest in ice skating grow usually after big international event like the Olympics when young people think they would like to have a go.

"There are not many ice rinks around the other closest being in Bristol and Oxford so it is good for the young people here. Ice skating is for all ages and definitely not just for the young and it is hard work it is the professionals who make it look easy.

Lesley has coached many young people from across the region, perfecting their ice skills for national and international competitions.

Joanna Webber, 18 from Newbury is one of Lesley's pupils and last year was the British Junior Ladies Ice Figure Skating Champion, and will soon be off to Italy as the British competitor.

She has to train in Swindon and practices five days a week from 6am to 10am in the morning, every morning.

She said: "Skating is an intensive sport and really keeps you fit, so even if you are not doing it seriously like at the Friday night disco it really gives you a workout. But it is great fun and everyone should have a go."