A roller skating rink officially opened on Wednesday at Metrocentre, Gateshead with sessions available for only £2.

The rink, operated by community interest company Power Through Sport, opened its doors to the public at 12pm and is anticipated to welcome up to 12,000 skaters for the duration it is open until September 1.

Sporting enthusiasts or even beginners can show up and tie up their skates from 11am to 7pm from Monday to Saturday, and 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

Considering the high expected turnout, advance booking is recommended.

Skate sizes start at junior size 6, although individuals are free to bring their own.

(Image: The Northern Echo)

Johnny Tulip from Power Through Sport said: "We're incredibly lucky.

"It's a great way for us to get our activity and our message out."

He hoped the rink at the Metrocentre would introduce a new generation to roller skating.

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"Many of the kids that grew up in the 90s saw a lot of this out in the streets.

"Nowadays, the street sports like roller skating, a lot of young people don't see a lot of, so we'll be able to introduce this activity for everybody at the Metrocentre."

To ensure a safe and secure environment for all, the company makes sure to provide protective gear including helmets, knee pads, and wrist guards.

(Image: The Northern Echo)

There are also qualified coaches on hand to offer top tips and help participants beat any anxiety related to roller skating.

"We know that roller skating can make people feel very anxious, and we know that sometimes there’s slips and falls.

"You're in the perfect place to give it a go and try.

"You don't realise how much exercise you're having when you're having so much fun!

"You’ll have a really great time and you'll have loads of fun and you’ll even go home aching in places you don’t even know that you had muscles."

Power Trough Sport is a not-for-profit company that specialises in taking activities to "underserved communities where we know we can have a big impact," said Mr Tulip.