Roger Giles, 87, from Welney, Norfolk, who helped co-ordinate Fen skating for many decades, said: “You need at least 2in to 4in (6cm to 10cm) of ice to be able to skate.”
But he predicted the icy conditions had “nearly come to an end”.
Competitive skating began in the Fens in 1879, and since then speed skaters have vied for the world or Fenland title whenever a Fen has frozen long enough to allow the championships to be held.
“It was wonderful to see so many people come out and enjoy something I’ve been doing for 45 years,” said Mr Smith.
“The ice came and it was perfect because it was on a Saturday and Sunday, when people are off work and children not at school.”
