SOUTHAMPTON motorists were greeted by the sight of 1,000 in-line skaters after French and English families accepted an invitation to "skate the city".

People who took part in Euroblade 2002 yesterday included about 500 enthusiasts from Southampton's French twin city of Le Harve.

They were joined by a similar number of locals on a ten-kilometre tour of the city.

Locals skated alongside their French counterparts in what organisers described as a friendly and spectacular cross-Channel celebration of street skating.

Euroblade began with a free breakfast for participants in the Guildhall.

Derek Burke, Southampton City Council's executive member for leisure services, sent the skaters on their way by firing a starting pistol near the Cenotaph.

The fun-filled event took in some of the city's most famous features, including the Titanic memorial, The Avenue and Southampton Common.

Cllr Burke said: "We implemented a rolling road closure programme and Sunday mornings are fairly quiet anyway so there was only a minimum of disruption to traffic.

"A family of four were among those who took part and everyone had a great time, despite the wet weather.

"It wasn't a race and there was no age restriction or minimum skill requirement, although everyone taking part was urged to wear a helmet and pads.

"Members of the St John Ambulance Brigade were on hand to deal with any injuries, but the only one I know of is a sprained ankle.

"I attempted to take part myself, only to fall over after about 100 yards.

"I'm determined to complete next year's event, which will be held either in Southampton or Le Harve."