Look out your ice hockey helmets and sticks
Ice hockey training is coming back to Aviemore after a lengthy absence.
The return of an ice rink to the village has re-ignited interest in the game which was once so popular in Aviemore.
Kirsty Bruce, spokeswoman for Aviemore and Glenmore Community Trust which is behind the successful rink project, said: "We have 40 young people attending learn to skate sessions on a weekly basis and we also have adult learn to skate session.
"From this January we will be offering junior ice hockey sessions in three age groups: U10s, U14s and U18s.
"These sessions are something that has been requested on a daily basis from our young folk; their enthusiasm for all things ice related really is infectious."
The trust has been delighted with the response since the rink opened at the Macdonald Aviemore Resort in early October with the rink proving to be a particular draw for local youngsters.
Mrs Bruce said: "There were so many people and businesses involved in making Aviemore ice rink a reality and it really is something we can all be very proud to have been a part of.
"Together we have built something that is having a huge positive impact for the whole community.
"As we all know 2021 has still been a bit rubbish and it's fantastic to see the enthusiasm from our young folks for the rink.
"They now have somewhere safe they can hang out and socialise in a positive way, getting them back out into the world and somewhere where they can just be themselves."
The ice rink is only closed on Christmas Day with normal 1pm to 9pm openings every other day.
Local residents are being encourage to book slots for the holidays ASAP as sessions are getting busy.
The Aviemore Blackhawks used to play at the Aviemore Centre ice rink and many ex-players and fans hold special memories from those days.
The club played in the Northern League and later in the British Hockey League Division 2 from 1979 to 1987.
Anyone wishing for more information on the ice hockey sessions should email rink manager Amanda Clinton at amanda.clinton@aviemoreicerink.com.
