Time to chill out as Ice Cube is back on Millennium Square

The coolest attraction in Leeds returns this week as Millennium Square welcomes back the popular Ice Cube outdoor skating rink.

Now in its 16^th year, the Ice Cube will be open today, Friday, January 22 until Sunday, February 21 2016 and is organised by Leeds City Council with support from media partners Capital FM.

The attraction features a real outdoor ice rink and adjoining nursery rink, surrounded by family rides and attractions.

To help create a party atmosphere on the opening day, the presenter team from Capital FM will also be down at the rink from 6pm to play host to the evening skating sessions with live DJ sets.

Tickets for all public ice skating sessions are now available to book in advance either online at www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube or by calling the booking line on 0843 208 1841.

Tickets are priced at £8.50 adults, £6.50 children (12yrs and under) with discounts available for LEEDSCard or BreezeCard holders. Booking fees may apply.

Alongside general public ice skating there will also be an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to hone their skating skills under the watchful gaze of expert coaches.

A four-week National Ice Skating Association (NISA) tuition programme for skating enthusiasts of all levels will be held on a Saturday and Sunday morning by Skate UK qualified skating professionals.

Priced at £72 per person, places are now available to book by calling the City Centre Box Office in the Carriageworks Theatre on 0113 224 3801. Booking fees may apply and just a few places remain.

A limited number of weekend individual lessons will also be available to book on a first come first served basis.

A special ‘first steps to skating’ tuition programme for Leeds school children will also be available during term time for schools to book and a weekly dedicated accessible session every Thursday morning between 9.15am to 10.15am is available for wheelchair users and the disabled.

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council said: “Ice Cube is one of our most popular events and a chance to try something unique and different right at the heart of the city centre.

“It’s always great to see people enjoying themselves out on the square and we’re very fortunate to have a space where we can host such a varied programme of innovative and exciting events.”

Pete Allison, drive presenter at Capital FM, added: “We’re so pleased to be involved with the Ice Cube again in 2016.

“Plus, it’s in Leeds city centre amid the bars, restaurants and shops – which are close to Capital HQ so I’ll be down there every night practising in the hope of making it to the Winter Olympics. It’ll be great to see everyone in Leeds bringing their mates along and getting involved.”

Visitors to the Ice Cube will also be able to enjoy other winter-themed attractions including regular favourites; Capital FM Snowslide, the North Pole Starflyer, Glacier Run Simulator plus the new Ice Palace 3D Experience along with various other icy themed rides for children of all ages.

Tasty treats and hot and cold snacks will also be available for all visitors in the Dolomites Café by Casa Mia.

For full skating details including prices and skating session times together with further information for all other attractions can be found at www.leeds.gov.uk/icecube

ENDS

For media enquiries, please contact:

Stuart Robinson

Communications Officer

Leeds City Council

Tel: 0113 224 3937

Email: stuart.robinson@leeds.gov.uk

www.leeds.gov.uk