A NEW skating rink, built on the site of an old one, began rolling in Great Harwood, in 1983.

And to see the opening of the Phoenix Rollerama were many people who had skated at the old rink, which closed in the sixties.

Jack Galloway spent two years transforning the old Town Gate Social Club and his wife commented: “People were thrilled to be rollerskating again on the rink they remembered as children.”

One of the main guests was Norman Mercer, of Burnley, whose father had owned and run the original rink.

He had captained the England roller hockey team in the past and represented his country in matches all over the world.

Several members of the team were present on the opening night, with a lot of old cups and badges – while Mr Mercer had a skate in his old boots, which had wooden wheels.