THERE was a record number of skaters for Basingstoke Ice Skating Club's Coaches Cup as 50 beginner level skaters took part in events right across the age range.

The first three classes were for skaters with no previous competitive experience and in the class one for skaters aged 11 and under Holly Buik came first with Sian Clark second and Neve Bosisto in third place.

In class two event was for skaters aged 12 to 20 it was Katie Hudswell who took gold in this class ahead of Nicola Wood and Emma Datlen.

Class three saw skaters age 21 and over andwas won by Eleanor Acreman with Julia Branagan second and Alison Clark third.

The other two classes were for skaters with previous competitive experience and in class four for skaters aged 20 and under Florence Turner won her class for the second year running with Ben Gregory second and Lucia Sancisi third In class five, for beginners aged 21 and over Katherine Slatter came first ahead of Steve Millar and Hazil Baldwin.

Simon Hawthorne, chairman of Basingstoke Ice Skating Club said "This year we have seen unprecedented growth in club membership and an associated increase of entries into the competition.

"There was no more time to fit any more skaters in: we really want to include everyone who wants to compete but it's a measure of the interest in skating in Basingstoke and the surrounding areas that we had a reserve list."

"The Coaches Cup is a fantastic competition that allows skaters of all ages with minimal or no competitive experience to gain experience in a safe, supportive environment. Everyone wants everyone else to do well, the applause and cheers are heartfelt: our members understand it can be a very nerve wracking experience to compete.

"This event helps to make it seem less daunting. They can then transition to full IJS level competitions, having had a trial run at a similar kind of event"

"The club has recently started a specific session for adults only and we have seen its impact in the 200% increase in adult entrants to Coaches Cup this year. It's proving a very popular part of club and is clearly offering a different way to keep fit and socialise."

Basingstoke Ice Skating Club runs sessions on a Sunday morning from January to September at the Basingstoke Arena. These feature a variety of activities including classes on technique from professional NISA coaches, visiting masterclasses (that have featured Olympic level British competitors and coaches), club competitions, social events and practice/social ice for club members.

A free taster session is available and is open to all levels of skaters, although you do need your own set of ice skates to join. Contact the club to arrange a trial session atbasingstokeiceskatingclub.co.uk