An event is being held in Beccles to raise funds to purchase new roller skates.

Every Sunday morning The Venue in Ringsfield Road puts on roller hockey from 9am to 10am and family roller skating sessions from 10am to noon.

The roller skates have given hundreds of people of all ages many hours of fun and exercise over the years, but they are now in desperate need of replacement.

Liz Hadridge, community sports and letting manager at The Venue said: “We don’t want to lose this fun family activity, however, funds are not available to purchase new skates so The Venue team have organised a fund raising event.”

“We would love as many people to come and skate as possible, either with their own skates or using ours. In a moment of madness I agreed to take part in the sponsored skate marathon myself, leading by example, have bought some skates and am now learning to skate in the hope I will at least remain upright, albeit at a sedate speed and being lapped by the youngsters no doubt.”

The event will take place on Saturday, March 4, between 1pm and 5pm.

Mrs Hadridge said: “We would like to invite anyone and everyone to join us for the afternoon, to take part in either the roller hockey fun tournament or the non-stop skating or to come along to spectate and enjoy refreshments or try their luck on our raffle. The afternoon promises to be lots of fun for all ages.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we have received already from Tesco, Morrison and Cash Inn and would welcome the support from any businesses or individuals who can help us raise as much money as possible so that we can continue to offer roller skating to the public.”

Sponsorship forms are available from both The Venue or by emailing xlah@sirjohnleman.co.uk

They are also hoping to generate further income by offering advertising spaces to sponsor a board which will be displayed around the astroturf and 3G pitches at The Venue.

Those interested in advertising can contact Mrs Hadridge on the above email.