Brighton ice rink opens for the winter

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink was officially opened by the Mayor of Brighton and Hove last night (Thursday 7 November).

More than 300 people attended the event including Natalie Cunningham who is due to perform in Robin Cousins’s ICE show at the Brighton Centre in January.

She gave a figure skating demonstration and was supported by performances from Kristen Spours, 13, Leticia Marsh, 12, and Elliot Crook, 15.

Mayor Denise Cobb

Kristen is in the top ten National Junior skating rankings. Leticia and Elliot are competing together in the British Championships at the end of the month.

The ice rink at the Pavilion opens to the public from tomorrow (Saturday 9 November) and runs until Sunday 19 January.

Mayor Denise Cobb said: “I am delighted to formally launch the rink on its fourth year at the Royal Pavilion.

“I’d like to thank Shella Parkin, from Laine Ltd, who creates this wonderful place every year, and also Dean Harding, who has made this delightful restaurant and bar.

“It really is a special winter attraction and just sums up the essence of Christmas.”

The 8,600sq ft (800sq m) rink has space for 250 skaters a session and includes a beginners’ area.

Tickets cost from £10 for adults and £7 for children under 12, with concessions for students.

The one-hour skating sessions run from 10am to 10.15pm daily.

Elliot Crook, 15, Leticia Marsh, 12, Kristen Spours, 13, and Natalie Cunningham at the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink