ASPIRING skaters will be deprived of their passion should Colchester’s Rollerworld closes next month, a mother has said.

Elle Lawson, who lives in Maldon, takes her six-year-old daughter, Myla, skating at Rollerworld – and has said scores of people are now facing losing out on one of their favourite activities with fears mounting over whether the skating rink will stay open.

Myla has only been skating since February, but Ms Lawson said her daughter, along with many other children, has benefitted hugely by partaking in the activity since the UK emerged from the Covid lockdown.

She said: “It allows her to develop a new skill – she’s made numerous new friends, and for her fitness and mental health, it’s very important.

“It will be devastating for my family if it closes because there isn’t another rink like it nearby.”

Although the family can skate in a smaller facility in Maldon, Ms Lawson said the community feel of the Rollerworld is essential.

“It’s about the community and what’s on offer at Rollerworld in terms of her coach, and the people who support her – if you talk to other parents, they will tell you the same story, because this space has really helped children come out of their shell.”