SPEED skating super stars took to the ice on Monday to officially launch Stretford Mall’s free half term ice rink.

The temporary artificial ice is in place all week for youngsters to try and junior members of Altrincham Speed Skating Club were only too happy to show shoppers how it’s done.

Leading the opening event demonstration was 16-year-old Tizzie Walsh, one of the club’s rising stars.

Tizzie, from Sale, said: “It was really good fun. We had some pictures taken and were able to show the kids there our skating positions and talk to them about what we do."

Welcoming the skaters to Stretford Mall, centre manager Craig Topping said: “We’re delighted to be able to host this artificial ice rink over the February half term and I’m in awe of what these youngsters from Altrincham Speed Skating Club can do on the ice.

“I can’t thank them enough for coming down and showing us their amazing skills and hope it has been inspiring for our customers.

“The rink will be open every day until Sunday, February 22."

Helping Tizzie showcase the sport of speed skating on Monday was seven-year-old Oliver Bornshin, a member of Altrincham Speed Skating Club for three years, and 10-year-old Lucas Vince.

Oliver’s mum Sally said: “Both Oliver and Lucas have had a great time. It has been really busy with loads of kids. They’re all laughing and joking and it’s a nice atmosphere.

“A lot of them wouldn’t normally get the chance to go to an ice rink so it’s really good. Oliver has been skating for three years now and he just loves it.”

The Altrincham Speed Skating Club meets once a week at the Altrincham ice rink and all age groups train together to encourage progression.

Gary Noble, the club coach and a former international star of the sport, said: “This is great if it means local kids are being active and if it inspires some to take up skating then so much the better."

The rink is free and is open from 11am to 5pm daily this week (4pm Sunday).and further information is available from stretfordmall.com.