FUN-LOVING senior citizens across East Lancashire and beyond responded in force when Blackburn Ice Arena invited them to get their skates on.

For the Arena's 'Thursday Dance Mornings' -- aimed at adult skaters -- have gone down a storm, with some of the eager participants well past pension age.

"There's been a really positive response with a growing number of people getting involved week by week," said Karen Barber, director of coaching. "We've even had a couple here from as far away as Dumfries!"

The two-hour sessions, which include expert tuition in a variety of ice-dances including the tango and the waltz, have proved very popular with those aiming to recapture their youth.

"I used to do a bit of dance formation back in the 60's," reflects 75-year-old Arthur Thorbinson. "My legs won't let me dance the blues anymore, but it's nice to be able get back on the ice.

"There hasn't been much opportunity for me to put the old skates on again, but thanks to the Arena, it's like I've never been away!"

Given their immense popularity, it is hoped that the dance mornings -- initially on a one- month trial period -- will continue.

"It's been a worthwhile and highly successful experiment," says Karen "and we hope to run the dance mornings on a regular basis some time in the near future."