AN outdoor ice rink will be at the heart of Huddersfield town centre festivities this Christmas.
Up to 150 skaters at a time will be able to try out a bit of ice magic on the Piazza. It will remain in the town for four weeks from the Christmas lights switch-on ceremony on November 16.
If it proves a success it could go on for an extra fortnight. The plans were announced by Kirklees Council. Clr Ken Sims, the council's deputy leader, said: "This is something new and exciting for Kirklees.
"It is something we have not tried before, but will hopefully be a big attraction. If it is, we will look to see if we can make it an annual feature."
Outdoor rinks will also feature in Dewsbury and Heckmondwike town centres during the Christmas period.
Huddersfield's rink will measure 65ft by 50ft. Ticket prices will be announced later.
The move comes as outdoor skating is enjoying a revival with dozens of rinks set up across the country last year.
ITV's Dancing on Ice proved a ratings winner earlier this year and organisers are hoping to attract skaters keen to emulate celebrities like footballer David Seaman, athlete Kelly Holmes and actress Bonnie Langford
Clr Sims said: "Ice-skating has appeal to people of all ages.
"The nearest facility is in Bradford, so we are testing the water to see what the interest is in Kirklees.
"To an extent, the success or failure of this initiative is very much dependent on public support. I am sure it is something that will prove very popular."
Rinks in Dewsbury and Heckmondwike will operate for just two days each.
Dewsbury's will be in front of the Town Hall on December 2 and 3, while Heckmondwike's will be in the Market Place on December 8 and 9.
Local schools will be encouraged to get their pupils to try out the rinks.
Clr Sims said: "Not only is skating a fun activity, it is also a healthy one."
