Daniel Whiston

Published Thursday 4 May 2006 at 12:45 by Mark Ritchie

The joint winner of the ITV’s Dancing on Ice, Daniel Whiston has been largely responsible for the resurgence of interest in skating and ice dancing in the Britain. Whiston partnered actress Gaynor Faye to victory in the competition and their routines were described by those in the know as “emotional”, “romantic” and “sassy”. It seems that everything is happening at once for the 29-year-old star of the Hot Ice show at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

How and why did you get involved in ice skating?

I started at the age of seven after following my sister Emma, who was a professional skater for a while.

How did you first get involved in Hot Ice?

I used to sell ice cream in the arena and finally I was chosen to take part in the show for the first time at the age of 18.

Which were the best of the other shows you’ve been involved in?

I would have to say a tour of Grease on Ice. We went on a massive North American tour, which included a performance in front of many of the cast of the original film musical in Los Angeles, including Olivia Newton John.

To what do you attribute your rise through the ranks?

Working very hard, dedication and a bit of luck along the way.

Were there any particular influential figures for you early on in skating and ice dancing?

Torvill and Dean were always my inspiration and for me to win Dancing on Ice under tuition from them was a massive priviledge.

So, what’s next for you?

At the moment I’m painting my dining room but career-wise there are lots of television offers in the pipeline that I am considering at present.

Nothing has been decided on yet but I’m keeping my feet on the ground and hope to make the right choices from many, many offers.