Libby Clegg makes history as first Dancing on Ice contestant with sight loss

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Author: Guide Dogs' Communications Team
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Libby-Clegg-with-skating-partner-Mark-Henretty

Libby, who performed her routine with her professional skating partner Mark Henretty, was voted to remain in the competition by the public watching at home. Guide Dogs Ambassador, Libby, who has Stargardt's Macular Dystrophy, has already said that her sight loss has provided her with an advantage in training as she doesn’t get as dizzy as the other contestants. However, she’s also quick to point out that she’s dependent on the way Mark describes the moves to her.

“As I can’t see the required skating moves before I try them out, I’m reliant on Mark’s powers of description to guide me through. Trust and communication are a key part of being successful and making the partnership work, and I ask a million questions. “Also, I can hear whether it sounds right. When you skate well it makes a kind of biting noise on the ice and when you do it badly it makes a scratchy noise, which I hear frequently.”

Trust and communication are a key part of being successful and making the partnership work, and I ask a million questions.

Libby Clegg, Paralympic athlete and guide dog owner

New-mum Libby was matched with her guide dog, Hatti five years ago, and says that the support she has provided her has been “invaluable” and given her the “confidence and independence to live my life on my own terms.” We, along with Hatti, her partner Dan and son Edward, cheered on Libby during her fantastic routine and are so proud of her amazing performance on Sunday night. Well done Libby, and good luck for next week! Dancing on Ice is broadcast every Sunday on ITV and you can vote for Libby by phone, mobile or via the app.

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