The only British ice dancing couple to enter the Youth Olympics in Poland have returned home smiling.

Sophie Jones, 15, from Springvale, Wigmore, and her partner Richard Sharpe, 17, flew out on February 14, to compete in their first international competition and not only came eighth place but also scored a personal best for their free dance.

What is more their combined score of 95.99 means they qualify to compete in the British Junior Championships in December.

Sophie said: “It was really enjoyable and it was great to see so many of the British team in the crowd supporting us, it really spurred us on to do well.”

Richard added: “It was probably one of the best free dances we have ever done. The whole experience has been fantastic.”

The couple are coached by Sophie’s mum Sharon and dad Gary at Gillingham Ice Bowl, where they both work as professional coaches.

Gary said: “They did very well to get eighth place. They also got a personal best so we are more than happy with their achievements.

“They went out their full of confidence and they skated to their true potential.

“They’ve got a workshop to attend in Germany at the beginning of April and they will be taking part in an internal competition on March 28.”

Sponsors are needed to help cover the cost of costumes and advanced training sessions for Sophie and Richard.

n Anyone interested in sponsoring the ice skating pair is asked to contact Gary Jones on 07796 857229.