A member of Ely Photographic Club managed to capture the beauty of Fen skaters on the ice at sunrise during the recent cold snap.  

Glynis Pierson braced the early morning chill and ventured to Upware on Saturday (January 20) where she managed to catch the day’s first skaters.  

She said: “I’m often out early for my photography because I love the early morning light that sunrise offers.  

“This time, especially for such a cold day, there were certainly more people around than usual. Everyone was so friendly. 

“The skating groups had let their members know about this unique experience of skating outside this year – and they were certainly making the most of it. 

“Everyone was so friendly, there was a lovely atmosphere.”  

Cambs Times: Photographer Glynis Pierson captured the skaters making the most of this Fenland tradition with her camera and drone.Photographer Glynis Pierson captured the skaters making the most of this Fenland tradition with her camera and drone. (Image: Glynis Pierson)

Skaters have been able to embark on this Fen tradition for four years in a row now.  

Glynis said a skater had drilled the ice a couple of days prior to test its thickness before skating could take place. 

Cambs Times: Glynis also managed to capture a frozen Welney Wash during the cold snap.Glynis also managed to capture a frozen Welney Wash during the cold snap. (Image: Glynis Pierson)

The temperature has to be freezing for several consecutive nights before it’s considered safe and the water levels are shallow.  

Cambs Times: Skaters have been able to enjoy Fen skating for four years in a row now.Skaters have been able to enjoy Fen skating for four years in a row now. (Image: Glynis Pierson)She used her camera and a drone to capture her collection of images of the Fens at Welney and Upware during the chilly temperatures.  

Some even made the national press and has been approached by a media company that came across her photography on social media and on ITV weather.  

Cambs Times: The ice is drilled and tested before skaters venture on it.The ice is drilled and tested before skaters venture on it. (Image: Glynis Pierson)Glynis said: “I’ve been a member of Ely Photographic Club for four years where I’ve learned so much about photography, printing and processing.  

“Getting out in all weathers is good exercise and beneficial to my wellbeing. Even though I’ve lived in the area all my life, I still come across places I’ve never been to before.” 

Cambs Times: A pair practising their ice hockey skills.A pair practising their ice hockey skills. (Image: Glynis Pierson)Glynis’ work is available to buy at glynpierson.etsy.com and glynpierson.picfair.com. Follow her on X and Instagram at @glynpierson.