AFTER more than 20 years vying for the top prize, a team of ice skaters have been crowned champions in a national competition.

The team from Lee Valley Skating Club beat over 400 skaters from across the UK in the National Team Challenge held at Lee Valley Ice Centre in Lea Bridge Road, Leyton on Sunday (July 2).

The competition, which featured heats in free skating, dance and synchro, was judged by professionals from across Europe.

Alan Seabrook, General Manager at Vibrant Partnerships which is responsible for Lee Valley Ice Centre, said: “Lee Valley did brilliantly and we are all proud of the fact that at last, after 23 years, they have come out champions.

“All the skaters in the team have worked really hard to get to pole position in this prestigious event.”

It comes as the club’s venue, the Lee Valley Ice Centre, is set to close next week for two months of repairs.

A new ice pad, cooling system and rink barrier will be installed at the Olympic-sized rink in Lee Valley Regional Park. The repairs will be carried out in an effort to safeguard the venue’s short-term future.

Earlier this year, campaign group Save Lea Marshes hit out at plans for an expansion of the centre and called on Lee Valley Regional Park Authority to protect the green space.