Ice rink set to attract 40,000

UP TO 40,000 skaters are expected to enjoy a massive ice rink which will be set up on the outskirts of Cork city next week.

Cork On Ice promoter Bill Cremin, who has set up dozens of ice rinks across Europe, will unveil the 450 square metre rink in Eastgate Retail Park in Little Island on November 16.

It will be the fourth anniversary of the death of his mother Sheila from cancer and he has decided to donate all the proceeds of opening night to the Marymount Hospice.

The ice rink will be housed inside a giant 1,000 square metre marquee guaranteeing all weather ice-skating.

Children under five are not permitted and special measures are planned to ensure the safety of all skaters.

Although the rink capacity is 150, Mr Cremin has decided to limit it to 120 to ensure clutter-free skating.

Skate marshals will constantly patrol the ice, safety equipment including helmets and knee pads will be provided to less experienced skaters, and trained medics will be on duty if they are needed.

The venue is on a large site opposite the KFC Chicken outlet and has more than 400 free car parking spaces. Catering will be provided by O’Brien’s sandwich bars and a number of winter markets will be available.

The rink will open Monday to Friday from 1pm to 10.30pm, and on weekends from 10am to 10.30am.

Prices will range from €12 to €16 with special rates for families and groups. Tickets can be bought online at www.corkonice.com or lo-call 0818 220050.