Theft threatens title hopes (From Bucks Free Press)

Theft threatens title hopes

12:30pm Wednesday 28th August 2002 in News By Michelle Fleming

A TEAM of ice-skating champions may lose the chance to defend their British title after one member's skates were stolen just five weeks before the championship qualifiers.

Sonia Perry, manager of the Montem Majors, has pleaded for the skates to be returned in time for the British Synchronised Ice-Skating Championships qualifiers in Birmingham in October.

Mrs Perry, of Chalfont St Giles, said that the skates, belonging to one of her top players, were stolen along with her dark green Audi TT from West Wycombe. The theft was noticed at around 6am on Wednesday.

She said: "It's a disaster for us. If she doesn't get them back we will have to say goodbye to this season.

"We need 12 people to compete and there is no way she will be able to get a new pair of skates and break them in in time for the qualifiers. The rules stipulate that we have to take part in both qualifiers to stand a chance."

Competition forms and other letters were with the white Belatti Aurora boots in the black zip-up hand luggage size case with retractable wheels she kept in the boot.

The irreplaceable white skates are fitted with prize blades that the player won in a competition.

Mrs Perry added: "They are of huge sentimental value. We are just hoping that the people who stole the car may just abandon it without finding them in the boot. The skates will be of little value to anybody else as they have moulded over time to fit the player's feet.

"It's difficult for us all at the moment as we don't know if we will make it to the competition."

Montem Majors won the mixed age competition at the last British Championships in Solihull.

Call the Ice Arena at Slough with information on 01753 821555