Jenna and stars take to the ice for Katie

HUNDREDS of people flocked to Dundonald International Ice Bowl to watch ten times British figure skating champion Jenna McCorkell and her husband, Belgium free skater Kevin Van Der Perren, join past and present figure skaters for a special fundraising gala in honour of former junior champion, Katie Scarborough.

Last summer mother of two Katie (32), who is originally from Gilnahirk, was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer and despite undergoing several chemotherapy treatments to prolong her life she has campaigned relentlessly to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and Bowel Cancer UK.

The Mayor of Castlereagh, Alderman Michael Henderson MBE said, “Katie is a truly inspirational young woman who has shown great strength and resolve throughout her illness to raise funds and awareness of bowel cancer in young people.

“I hope people are truly inspired by Katie’s determination and courage to help others despite her own personal battle.”

Former figure skater Kerry Greer, who co-ordinated the event added, “I grew up with Katie at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and was inspired by her strength and courage to raise awareness and funds for bowel cancer.

“So when Katie first thought of the idea to organise a fundraising ice gala, I was delighted to help and quickly set up a social media page to ask any figure skaters if they would be willing to help. We were overwhelmed by the response!

“The skating community were clearly inspired by Katie and were willing to lend their support including British champion Jenna McCorkell, current junior and senior figure skating champions and several former skaters who were prepared to dust off their skates, especially for the event.

“Katie even received a special autograph from Torville and Dean which shows the extent of the support for this amazing and wonderful lady.”

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