DEESIDE Leisure Centre in Queensferry, is celebrating the Ice Skating Club's 50th anniversary this weekend.

The much-loved centre has provided a source of joy and happiness to many in the Flintshire community over the years.

To celebrate, a special 50th anniversary gala will take place in aid of Giddo's Gift on Sunday (July 14).

The Giddins family has a special place in the hearts of the club. The charity Giddo's Gift was set up in memory of Jordan Giddins who sadly lost his battle with cancer in 2017. It aims to improve the lives of teenagers and young adults suffering with cancer.

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Jordon and his family were part of the Deeside skating club family for many years and club president Jo-Anne Murray couldn’t think of a more fitting charity for its 50th anniversary

She said: "When I joined Deeside skating club in 1974 little did I know that I would still be a member of the club 50 years later, and proudly serving as their President for the last 12 years. 

"DISC has seen many skaters come and go through the years, some just skated for a short time, some are still members after many years, and some went on to represent Deeside on the international stage in competitions and professional shows, and we are so very proud of them all. 

"Over the years we have held numerous shows, competitions and galas, each one holding special memories for those involved. And it’s not just the skaters, it’s the vast army of willing parents, aunties and uncles and grandparents, who have all played their part in making these occasions so memorable - we thank them all. 

"DISC went through a worrying time during the closure of the rink due to Covid but I’m delighted that, through hard work and determination, the Committee have managed to build up the numbers again and DISC is once again thriving and holding competitions and galas to showcase the fabulous talent at Deeside. 

"Deeside Ice Skating Club has provided us all with so many fabulous opportunities over its 50 years and many friendships have been made. With this friendship in mind It’s our great pleasure to present to you our 50th Anniversary gala on the 14th of July.

"The club has chosen to donate the proceeds to a charity close to our hearts, Giddo's Gift. Giddos Gift is a charity set up in memory of Jordan Giddins who sadly lost his own battle with cancer in 2017, and it aims to improve the lives of teenagers and young adults suffering with cancer.

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"Jordon and his family were part of our skating club family for many years and we couldn’t think of a more fitting charity for our 50th anniversary. 

"I wish the club a long and successful future which will inspire the professional skaters and future Olympians to carry on our legacy."

The gala will showcase a variety of skaters, aged between 4 and 60+. Doors open at 4.15pm and the gala starts from 4.45pm.