Ten-time GB champion Jenna backs online ice rink campaign

The campaign, started by Coleraine man Martin Darragh, a member of the NI Tridents Ice Hockey team, gained over 3,000 followers in the space of a week.

Proud Coleraine woman, Jenna, who began ice skating at the tender age of seven at the Jet Centre, before going on to represent GB in the Olympics, believes that an ice rink is needed on the North Coast.

Martin told The Times: “We have been lobbying councillors and MLAs. We have had a few responses from councillors who are also behind the idea. Andrew Dickson, from Ballymoney, who is a goalie with The Belfast Giants has also been in contact and is backing us.”

Messages on the page include one from Ulster Unionist councillor Darryl Wilson who commented: ‘Great to see such enthusiasm from everyone towards a local ice rink . It would be a fine addition to the Causeway Coast and Glens area.’

Martin added: “Fifteen of us travel from the Coleraine area every week to train at Dundonald for the Tridents. Dundonald is the only ice rink in Northern Ireland, and we feel that there is a need for one in this area. An ice rink could open so many doors for other events. This area has already proved that we can host big events like The Open golf.”

Despite having no financial backing, Martin is urging as many people as possible to join the campaign: “Lets make the powers that be see what we want in our town,” he said