ICE Central will return for an extended spell this Christmas following its hugely successful introduction last year.

Thousands got their skates on during 2016’s nine-day event, which saw Barry get its first ever ice rink, erected in a section of Central Park.

And this time even more people will have the opportunity to sample the centrepiece of the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Christmas events programme as it will be open for a full three weeks.

Securing a space on the ice will also be easier thanks to the introduction of an online booking system at www.visitthevale.com

More exciting announcements are expected before the rink opens at 5.30pm on Saturday, November 25, following the Christmas Lights switch-on at King’s Square.

It will run until Sunday, December 17, with 40-minute sessions operating until 6.30pm Monday to Wednesday and 8.30pm Thursday to Sunday.

Tickets are priced at £7.50 for adults, £5 for under-16s and £15 for a family of four.

Expert rink installers 11th Hour Events, who also stage the likes of Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland and Christmas Kingdom at the Celtic Manor, will again be responsible for delivering the council’s premier festive event.

Cllr Jonathan Bird, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning said: “Ice Central proved enormously popular last year, with feedback overwhelmingly positive, so I’m thrilled we are able to bring it back for an even longer period this Christmas.

“The rink not only offers children, adults and families the opportunity to sample a little festive magic in the heart of Barry, it also brings large numbers of visitors to the town, which can only benefit local businesses.”