ice skating

It may sound like synchronised swimming on ice (without the nose pegs), but if you are an ice skating fan to start with, then precision skating could just prove to be a dazzling addition to your repertoire.

The sport involves the same kind of figures and routines as conventional skating, but performed by teams of between 10 and 24, assessed by seven judges. It started in Canada in the early 1980s, reaching Britain three years ago, and tomorrow and Sunday some of Europe's leading teams will be appearing in the Lee Valley International.

The competitors are mostly young women, with a smattering of menfolk, at novice, junior and senior levels. Apart from the home front, Belgium, France, Italy, Switzerland and Russia are sending teams. The heats start at 5pm tomorrow, with the finals on Sunday from 6.45pm, though you can go both days from lunch-time to watch the practice sessions.

The Lee Valley Precision Skating International, tomorrow and Sunday. Lee Valley Ice Centre (081-533 3156)