A new Christmas skating rink has been formally unveiled in Burnham-On-Sea this weekend and is now open for the festive holidays.
The synthetic skating rink was officially opened by Burnham’s MP James Heappey and the town’s Mayor and Mayoress, Michael and Maria Clarke, on Saturday (December 17th).
Organised by Burnham-On-Sea Events Social Team (BEST), the rink is open daily from 10am-6pm until January 3rd in the Lynton Road car park.
BEST decided earlier this year that it would purchase the rink, agreeing that this would be more cost-effective than hiring one each year.
Kathy Jones, Chairperson of BEST, said: “2016 has been a great year for us, we have held a number of very successful events, including Somerset Day, the August Bank Holiday fete, Blitz at the Ritz and other smaller fundraising events.”
“They have been very well supported and we have been gaining members and ‘BEST friends’ throughout the year. We now have the opportunity to build on our success.”
Peter Burridge-Clayton, Vice Chairman of BEST, said: “It’s great to see the new rink open and I would like to thank the team for all their hard work and support – we hope lots of people enjoy the rink over Christmas.”
MP James Heappey said: “I’m delighted to see the rink open – I believe this is a wonderful enhancement to the town over the holiday period. It’s great that it gets bigger and better each year.”
Burnham and Highbridge Town Council gave BEST initial start-up funding for the project last year and since then the team has gained volunteers who are fundraising year-round to fund the ice rink.
The new skating rink is open to all for the festive season.
Peter Burridge-Clayton with Huntspill councillor Lorna Cork trying out the rink.
A fun fair was also set up in the Lynton Road car park next to the skating rink for Saturday’s opening.
