Talented ice skaters wow crowds as Norwich rink enjoys a busy weekend

As they glided over the ice, spinning and twirling, they certainly served as inspiration for those watching on.

Talented ice skaters took to the Eastern Daily Press and Evening News' festive rink on Saturday morning, just a day after it was officially opened to the public.

Ice dancers Fenella Watson-Buck and Katie Williams were first up, impressing the audience with their routine and remaining unfazed when the rink's electricity briefly went down halfway through.

Then - with the power firmly back on - other dancers took to the rink, including Norwich's synchronised skating team Ice Candy.

Maryrisa Chappell, organiser of the rink, said: 'The skating displays on Saturday were brilliant and a great way of encouraging people out onto the ice.

'We've only just started and we've been astounded by the ticket sales so far, with most sessions fully booked.

'We'd love to see more faces arriving - what better ways are there to spend last week before Christmas?'

She advised people to book online to avoid disappointment.

After the performances it was time for public skating, with hundreds of people sailing across the ice over the weekend, including families out for a day of shopping on the final weekend before Christmas.

For five-year-old Phoebe Scriven, it was her first time taking to the ice, during a day out with grandmother Pat Cox and mum Anna, who was celebrating her 30th birthday.

Pheobe said: 'I thought it was really, really fun and I stood up the whole time.'

This year, the rink, which is at Castle Gardens in the city centre, is sponsored by Jack and the Beanstalk at the Norwich Theatre Royal.

To book and for information, click here.

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