Tynwald Mills has lost a planning application to erect an ice rink for 60 days over the Christmas period.

The company is appealing against the decision.

The shopping centre’s boss, Stephen Bradley, said: ’We are fast reaching our deadline for committing to the staff and rented equipment used to create the rink.

’We understand and are committed to taking the marquee down after Christmas but are fingers crossed that common sense will prevail and the popular facility will go ahead for the fourth year.’

He said that more than 11,000 people went ice skating last year, including all of the island’s schools .

He added: ’With the kind help of our sponsors we raised over £25,000 for local good causes.’