BLACKBURN Ice Arena has bought a new piece of kit which used to belong to one of the world's biggest ice hockey teams.

The venue has taken delivery of a £65,000 rink resurfacing machine from National Hockey League (NHL) side Washington Capitals.

The Olympia Millennium ice-cleaner has been shipped over from the United States where it saw action in the top hockey league in the world.

It replaces the second oldest machine in the UK which the arena has pensioned off after 16 years.

"Considering the old one spent its early days stored outside in the wind and rain until we built a garage, then it has done incredibly well to last 16 years."

"This one is practically new. It was their second machine and they replace them every couple of years whether they need to or not," said arena manager Mark Halliwell.

The machine is used six times a day and cuts a thin layer of ice off the surface and puts down a film of water which then freezes to leave a smooth finish.

The new ice-cleaner is the latest investment to make sure the arena remains a top ice rink.

Bosses are to ask Blackburn MP Jack Straw to back their bid for a performing rights licence which would allow them to play music in the venue at a cheaper price.

Music fees have risen over the past three years from around £2,400 to a £10,000.