WHEN a pair of roller skating romantics met on a date at the former Navada rink in Bolton little did they know their daughter would one day become British Ladies Champion. Twenty-three years after Tony Lightowler swept Sheila Hampson off her feet at the town's favourite roller skating venue, their daughter Lynsey has won the coveted title. Lynsey, 17, is competing with the rest of the British squad in the European Championships at Copenhagen this week.

But sadly this may be the last time that she is able to compete at such a level because championship roller skating is a costly activity.

The family, of Eastfield, in Radcliffe, have already written to many potential sponsors but to no avail.

The next major competition the dedicated youngster has set her sights on is the Junior World Championships in South America.

Lynsey's mum Sheila, said: "We are very proud of Lynsey, she is a very talented skater.

"It's lovely that she has followed in our footsteps - although we were never at her standard."

She added that it would be shame for her daughter to have to give up competitions - just as there is a possibility that it could become an Olympic event.

However travel, accommodation and costumes is costly and unfortunately Lynsey's father Tony, was recently made redundant.

Paula Callaghan, of the Manchester United and Salford Roller Skating Club, where Lynsey is a member, commented: "Just think of it. A date at the Navada led to the making of a British roller skating champion.

"It would be a shame for Lynsey to have to give up her skating. Is there anyone out there who would like to sponsor the British champion or help finance other up and coming local stars?"

Since the Navada closed down many years ago, roller skaters have travelled to Ordsall Recreation Centre in Salford.

Anyone who can help with sponsorship or anyone who would like to start roller skating should contact Paula Callaghan on Bolton 308663 or Sheila Lightowler on 0161 280 0994.

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