A GROUP of more than 40 young ice skaters enjoyed a summer skating camp at the Auchenharvie Leisure Centre in Saltcoats thanks to a donation from EDF Energy’s Hunterston power station.

The award of £5,000 allowed the boys and girls from the Magnum Ice Dance and Figure Skating Club to enjoy a week long intensive training camp with Dancing on Ice professional, Mark Hanretty as one of their coaches.

The group had sessions on the ice, dance and fitness classes and daily lectures on health and wellbeing.

The money comes from EDF Energy’s Sporting Legacy Fund which was set up after the London 2012 Olympics to capture the spirit of the Games.

EDF, of which EDF Energy is a UK subsidiary, was an official partner and electricity supplier to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The company supplied electricity to the Olympic Park which was backed by low-carbon nuclear and renewable sources.

Bob Peters, Club Secretary at the Magnum Ice Dance and Figure Skating Club said: “The camp attracted 43 skaters, some local and others from various parts of the UK, aged between six and 21 years old, from beginner level to those taking part in national competitions.

“Everyone who took part showed great enthusiasm and determination.

“We couldn’t have done this without the help of Hunterston B power station and are grateful for the money which has allowed our skaters to develop further.” Hunterston B power station director, Colin Weir, said: “To show such commitment to their sport at such a young age is really inspiring and I hope all the young skaters really enjoyed the summer camp.

I’m pleased we were able to help with the funding and it would be great to see some of the youngsters at the next winter Olympics!” You can find out more about the Magnum Ice Dance and Figure Skating Club at www.midfsc.org.uk.