By David Gold

Torvill and_Dean_doing_Balero1December 28 - Team GB ambassadors Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean have spent a day at the University of Bath with the British rhythmic gymnastics team as they gear up for London 2012.


The pair claimed gold in ice dancing at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo - receiving twelve perfect 6.0s and six 5.9's which included artistic impression scores of 6.0 from every judge.- and gave artistic guidance to the athletes as they gear up for the gymnastics test event next month.

Sarah Moon, coach of the rhythmic gymnastics team, said:  "Today has been absolutely fantastic; it has been a real boost to the team to have Team GB Ambassadors and Olympic Champions Jayne and Chris here mentoring today.

"It has been an absolute treat.

"They are truly inspirational British role models".

Torvill and Dean were revealed to be part of the 27-strong group of Olympians who would be Team GB 2012 ambassadors in March, and their appearance in Bath was part of the plan to bring together the country's most experienced Olympians with London hopefuls.

Earlier this year the Olympic champion Robin Cousins met with the synchronised swimming squad to help them prepare for the Games next year and more partnerships are planned for the months ahead.

Torvill and_Dean_with_GB_rhythmic_gymnasts"I have always been fascinated by rhythmic gymnastics," said Dean (pictured).

"To me it is working with props, so seeing the girls today go through the routines, it is amazing to watch."

Torvill added: "I have seen rhythmic gymnastics on the television a couple of times, but not often enough as is the case with most sports.

"It is fascinating because there is definitely a cross over with skating, it is balletic and athletic, and you are doing routines to music.

"At this point the girls already had their routine choreographed and there were certain elements that Chris and I are just beginning to understand, some of the technical things that they need to include, what they get their points and scores for."

To see video footage of Torvill and Dean with the rhythmic gymnastics team click here.

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