Flowing: Top Brits Darren Dyke and Kirsty Chick. (0456394)

BRITISH dance skating champions Darren Dyke and Kirsty Chick placed eighth at the European Championships held in Fuengirola, Spain.

It was the fourth time they have competed at this level and in so doing confirmed themselves as the top British performers.

After making good use of their training days they made a good start in the compulsory dances, a lively Quickstep putting them fifth.

With this under their belt they moved to the Viennese Waltz, but with a less convincing performance  they slipped to eighth.

With a two-day break from competition they put in some much needed polish on the Original Dance in order to challenge both the French couples competing for sixth and seventh places.

With the choice of music this year allowing the couples to select music of a Spanish theme, the Sarnians  chose a modern upbeat Tango and Flamenco lullaby.