THE summer ice skating school run by an Olympic skater has proved so successful there are plans to run it again this winter.

Telecommunications company Sure sponsored the ice rink and the coaching lessons which began in July.

The lessons, for seven to 17 year olds, were conducted by Olympic ice skater and Dancing on Ice coach Karen Barber.

Participants enjoyed the same experience as the celebrities who learnt to skate with Karen for the hit ITV1 show.

Mike Stanton, country manager for Sure said: "We are really happy that Karen could come over to add a new element to Sure Summer Skate.

"Everyone was so excited about the rink when it was over at Christmas and people were constantly asking about lessons, so we gave them what they wanted."

Rachel Hudson, 16, attended one of the courses. She said: "All the people on the course improved so much and I wish it had gone on for the whole summer holidays as it was such fun learning how to skate."

The ice skating rink will return in the winter and Karen Barber has encouraged people to make the most of it.

She said: "If you missed out this time, make sure you get yourself signed up in the winter to get some real, basic tuition. Ice skating is very safe if you know what to do, but you should get an introductory lesson."

The Sure Summer Skate rink is open until September 7.^. 

For more information see: www.sureskate.com