BASINGSTOKE'S Ice Rink is being used as a training base for stars of Dancing on Ice.

The facility, in the Leisure Park, has been used for training by Ski Sunday presenter and Winter Olympian Graham Bell and his professional partner Yebin Mok.

The duo posted a selfie and video on Instagram of them, with the advertising boards and seating in the background giving it away as Basingstoke's rink.

The future of the rink has been under threat in recent years, with urgent repairs needed to sustain its future.

However, the project is delayed as Planet Ice decide what works need to be done, and whether a temporary rink is needed in the interim.

Sally Cashman, chair of the Ice Rink Users' Forum, says that the news of professionals using the rink show that Basingstoke could have an international standard rink if it wanted.

"What matters is that years ago when it was in a decent state, it was home to some of the top ice dance competitions.

"This just shows that we could have this again if it was in a decent state.

"They have international figures skaters on Dancing on Ice.

"In the south of England we are an ice rink short because Bracknell has closed."

Dancing on Ice returns to ITV in January, with Philip Schofield and Holly Willoughby resuming presenting duties.

Joining Graham in the cast this year are hurdler Colin Jackson, actors Denise van Outen, Faye Brookes and Jason Donovan, plus singer and presenter Myleene Klaas.

They're joined by reality star Billie Shepherd, actors Joe-Warren Plant and Rufus Hound, television personality Rebekah Vardy, rapper Lady Leshurr and radio presenter Sonny Jay.

Last year's series was won by actor Joe Swash, with Diversity's Perri Kiely and Paralympian Libby Clegg also reaching the final.