Royal Windsor Rollergirls continues to grow in popularity

From humble beginnings, the Royal Windsor Rollergirls roller derby group continues to increase in popularity.

The group was co-founded by Ross Stone, the head coach, in 2007 and is now one of the longest running in the country.

There were eight members in 2007, which has quickly grown to about 70 members today.

Now, each new starter session draws an increasing number of people wanting to pull on their skates and take part in the fast-paced sport.

The team train every Sunday at Charters School in Sunningdale as well as two other nights a week.

Consisting of the A team, Who Dares Windsor, and B team, The B-Headers, both compete on a national and international level.

Vicky Blampied, 33, has been with the group for six years, having previously skated with the Camberley Skaters.

She ended up being a part of the Windsor Rollergirls after she was dared to try it out.

One of her highlights during her stint at the club was a trip to Florida last year as part of the A team.

When skaters start as ‘rookies’ they have to complete a range of skill tests, including 27 laps of the track in five minutes.

Cleo Timney, 26 is the captain of the A team and coach of the B team.

She said: “It’s grown a lot. When I started we were quite small, now we have about 70 members.

“The best bit about it is definitely the social side and that I’m doing something that I really love and that gives me so much pride.

“It really is an empowering feeling, and I’m doing it with all my friends.”

The next new starter session will take place at Charters Leisure Centre on March 16 at 7pm.

Visit www.windsorrollergirls.com or email newstarters@windsorrollergirls.com for information.