A Bradford-born British ice skating star is retiring to pursue a new career dancing in professional ice shows.

Danielle Calthorpe, 20, of Cottingley, has announced her decision after finishing fourth in the US Solo Dance Championship finals, the first time a British skater has ever qualified for the competition.

Despite winning a pewter medal, former Bingley Grammar School pupil Danielle, who is also British Senior Solo Ice Dance champion, has decided on a fresh challenge.

“The competition was a great way to end my career,” she said. “I’ve given up a lot to compete, but I have had an amazing 14 years. I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved and don’t regret anything. Skating has given me great experience and I can take that into the future.”

Danielle has secured a role in her first show, heading to France in December to star in a run of ‘Magic sur Glace’ in Lille.

“I’ve always thought about doing shows, but was just waiting for the right time,” she said.

Starting skating at six years of age, Danielle trained for 11 years at the Bradford Ice Arena, before moving to a training base in Delaware in the US.

She won the British Senior Solo Ice Dance Championship title for the second time this year, and Hilary Selby, performance director for the National Ice Skating Association, praised her contribution to the sport.

She said: “Danielle has been a great servant to the sport over the last 14 years and we wish her the best of luck.”

Danielle will be back in Yorkshire in November for an audition in Sheffield with Disney on Ice, a show that could see her performing all over the world.