Excitement ahead of Torvill and Dean farewell show

Fans were “excited” and “emotional” ahead of Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean’s final ice skating show.

The Olympic gold medallists were set to skate together for one final time in Nottingham on Saturday, bringing their 50-year career to an end.

A rink at the National Ice Centre was also officially named after them and a blue plaque marking their final performance was revealed on Tuesday.

Speaking ahead of their final performance, Laura Affleck, 44, from Nottingham, said: “We have grown up watching them and we wanted to be here before they retire.”

Jane Derris-Timson, from Nuneaton in Warwickshire, said she could not wait for the “iconic day” to begin.

“I’m so excited I can’t tell you,” said Ms Derris-Timson.

The 56-year-old said she had been a “big fan” ever since she watched the pair win gold at the 1984 Winter Olympics.

“I’ve seen them a few times before and I’m quite emotional to be here on the last day,” she added.

“Their journey started here and they are national treasures. They’ve done a lot for Nottingham and the wider community.”

Usha Soni, 74, said she used to watch Torvill and Dean practise when she worked next to an ice rink in London.

“The ice rink used to give tickets out to our office and I was lucky enough to see them perform back then,” said Ms Soni.

“I will be very happy for them and wish them the best of luck in the future.”

Ann Powell, 77, from West Bridgford, added: “I did see them perform soon after they won the Olympics many years ago, which was amazing.

“They’ve had a really good career and I feel very lucky and special to be here.”

Ahead of their final performance, Christopher Dean said the pair would “always be a part of Nottingham”, adding the city will always have a “special place” in their hearts.