A new ice skating rink has opened on Lord Street in Douglas, described by the operators as ’larger than ever before on the island’.

It will be open seven days a week from 10.30am to 8.30pm until January 9.

A kiosk has been set up to provide around 400 pairs of skates, and the rink has capacity for more than 100 skaters.

Local businessman Stephen Bradley, who owns the site and is running the ice rink, said of the project’s origins: ’The space was available, and I thought it would be a good attraction for Douglas which would bring people into the town.’

Admission costs £10 for adults and children £8.

The site is earmarked for a hotel, shops and a cinema.