A KEEN skater has launched a campaign to get an ice rink back in Stevenage. Melanie Hawker, 29, of Ulswater Close, Stevenage, has set up a petition to replace the rink which was shut down in the late 1990s. Miss Hawker thinks it would help deal with nuisa

A KEEN skater has launched a campaign to get an ice rink back in Stevenage.

Melanie Hawker, 29, of Ulswater Close, Stevenage, has set up a petition to replace the rink which was shut down in the late 1990s.

Miss Hawker thinks it would help deal with nuisance youths by giving young people something to do, and would also bring people into the town.

She said: "With the town growing and developing as it is we've got a lot of people living here but not the facilities to meet their needs."

Miss Hawker currently travels to Milton Keynes twice a month to skate.

"It's fantastic exercise, it's really good fun.

"It's really relaxing," she said.

So far her petition has attracted 150 signatures, as well as the support of MP Barbara Follett.

Mrs Follett said: "I think there's a real demand for an ice rink in Stevenage.

I am happy to back it to the hilt."

To sign the petition online, visit www.gopetition.com/online/9920