A Wisbech speed skating British champion has saved a recently closed Fens roller rink by taking it on as a new business opportunity.

Cambs Times: Michael McInerney is re-opening Skaters in Walpole Highway Wisbech. Picture: Steve Williams.Michael McInerney is re-opening Skaters in Walpole Highway Wisbech. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Property developer Michael McInerney, 41, who has skated since he was a child, grabbed the chance to take on Skaters and within just two weeks of the venue shutting down, plans to relaunch it with a Valentines roller disco.

Mr McInerney said he couldn’t sit back and watch the sport he was so passionate about, become lost for future generations in the local area.

“I run the local speed skating club and have skated all my life, so I am passionate about the business as it is something I have always been involved in.

“I’m looking to diversify so it is not only skating but also offers day time events like short mat bowls, aerobics and fitness classes, karate clubs, line dancing. I want to open it up for more community events so that it is not just an evening or weekend centre.”

Already Mr McInerney has got to work with a budget of around £15,000 to upgrade and change the inside of the venue.

The revamped Walsoken rink - which has been renamed to Skaters with an “s” - will launch officially with a roller disco on Valentine’s Night.

Mr McInerney was European speed skate champion in the 80s and in the 90s was ranked ninth in the world.

He is currently the British speed skating champion and has helped to coach young and old alike to win national titles ensuring that in the last 20 years there has always been a speed skate champion from Wisbech in some capacity, either in junior or veteran categories.

“Skating has been a part of my life for a long time. I’m determined to make it work,” he said.