A HEARTBROKEN ice skating coach whose decades-long post at a Flintshire leisure centre came to an abrupt end has expressed her gratitude following an outpouring of support.

The Leader reported last week how mum-of-two Penny Hebden-Jacks, who taught pupils to skate at Deeside Ice Rink, had to stop coaching at the facility after her agreement with Aura Leisure and Libraries was terminated.

She had worked with learners both on behalf of Aura (and Flintshire Council prior to the formation of Aura) and delivered private lessons at the facility for 30 years and said the news had come as a big shock.

After looking for alternative venues to continue teaching her private lessons, Mrs Hebden-Jacks said she was pleased to say that she has been accepted at both Altrincham and Widnes ice rinks - but both are going to put a strain on her pupils due to the distance they must now travel if they wish to continue learning with her.

However Mrs Hebden-Jacks, aged 53 and of Mold, said she was surprised and grateful to the number of people who have reached out to her since she has left Deeside Leisure Centre.

She said: "I've had a lot of calls from pupils who have given me their support and said how awful they think it is - it's really surprised me.

"People have come up to me in the shops and the banks and building societies asking how I'm doing which is very nice.

"I would like to thank them all very much. It means an awful lot to me and it has kept me going over this."

Mrs Hebden-Jacks said she didn't believe Aura provided her with a satisfactory reason for the decision, telling the Leader previously she felt it has been "a personal attack" but that she had done "nothing wrong".

When approached by the Leader last week for comment, an Aura spokesman said: "Aura is committed to reviewing all contractors who provide products and services to Deeside Leisure Centre.

"With this particular matter we had the right to cancel the contract of services and we exercised that right."

Mrs Hebden-Jacks, who maintains she has not had an explanation, has also called on MPs David Hanson and Mark Tami for their support.

Mr Tami said: "I was made aware of this when I was approached by a number of constituents who were taught by Ms Hebden-Jacks.

"It was not only constituents who approached me upset by the decision, but also people from further afield, which pays testament to how highly regarded Ms Hebson-Jacks is amongst her pupils. "Aura have said they are well within their rights – which I do not doubt – however I have asked for some clarity into why exactly they have come to this decision.

"I am hoping we find a resolution at the earliest opportunity.”

Many readers also took to the Leader's Facebook page to express their support for Mrs Hebden-Jacks.

Lindsay Hasaj posted: "This is an absolute travesty, Penny was one of the coaches that taught me to skate many years ago.

"My daughter is currently learning to skate and Penny is still as professional and as inspiring as ever.

"I'm thoroughly disappointed in Aura and heartbroken for Penny."

Ellie Huntington said: "Penny has taught me for nearly 30 years. I have achieved all my dreams all thanks to her and now I have to travel twice the distance to other rinks."

Tom Polish said: "Such a shame. Great ice skating coach. Wouldn't be able to play hockey without lessons from Penny back in the day."

When approached by the Leader, Aura declined to comment further.