We've decided to run a regular column where we will get to meet an ICP qualified instructor, some of whom will be regular faces in and around Hyde Park and on the London skate scene.

First up we interview our very own Mark Davies, founder and director of skateinstructor.com, and one of only three level 3 ICP qualified instructors in the UK.

We have had a wonderful run of hot & sunny weather recently but occasionally, like today, we get hit with rain. Skating in wet conditions can be hazardous and cause damage to your bearings, but it can also help your technique.

Whilst we do not encourage people to skate in the wet there are situations where it becomes a necessity, like when you're already skating and get caught in the rain. Here is some simple advice on how to deal with rain:

Here is an update on the courses coming up this weekend:

On Sunday 11th May we're running our usual Sunday Beginners session at the usual time of 12pm.  You'll learn to start skating and how to stop safely.

At 1:30pm, on the same day, we're running the Sunday Beginners Follow-on course where you can learn to deal with getting on and off pavements, as well as how to turn.  It costs £20 so just turn up ready to roll.

All of these courses take place at The Royal Albert Memorial

It's typical for our students to be very confident on flat surfaces, skating around The Royal Albert Memorial, but then to panic descending even the slightest of slopes.  Even though they often skate faster on the flat than they would get going down hill, they still don't trust their preferred stopping technique.

It comes down to fear: as everyone does when they panic skating these students tense, straighten their legs, and their stopping becomes worse as a result.  Relax but be prepared to put more physical effort into stopping.

In this issue

• New! New! New!
• Safety Policy Change
• Paris skate - May 2008
• Private Lessons
• Course changes
• Club Blue Room Skates
• Sk8School Information
• Lessons coming up in May 2008