MEMBERS of the Isle of Wight Ice Dance and Figure Skating Club have been making use of today’s technology to help them stay focused on their training during the coronavirus crisis.

Safely at home and unable to travel to the mainland to train on the ice, the skaters currently meet each week for an online training session, where they practice routines in their own living rooms and stay connected with the Island’s skating family.

Isle of Wight County Press: Isobel Cheeseman practices some skating moves at home.Isobel Cheeseman practices some skating moves at home.

Used to getting up at 3am to cross the Solent for training in Gosport on Sunday mornings, the skaters and their families are welcoming their Sunday lie-ins, but also desperately missing their regular sessions on the ice.

Isle of Wight County Press: Carmen Menzies practices some skating moves at home.Carmen Menzies practices some skating moves at home.

Terri Smith, lead coach of the Isle of Wight Ice Dance and Figure Skating Club, said: “At this uncertain and surreal time we are all staying safe in our own homes, but it is very difficult for the skaters, who are used to spending so much time with one another.

“As a club, we are used to obstacles. Losing our rink hasn’t stopped us skating, so this virus won’t stop us either.

Isle of Wight County Press: Isobel Cheeseman links up with her fellow skaters for a practice session at home.Isobel Cheeseman links up with her fellow skaters for a practice session at home.

“The girls are staying positive and active through their online skate sessions.

“Even in these difficult times, they all feel much happier after training online with their best buddies.”

The Isle of Wight Ice Dance and Figure Skating Club will receive free travel on Wightlink ferries once normal training is resumed.