Clarks Village in Street has kicked off the festive season with the grand opening of its Christmas ice rink, welcoming guests from various disability groups for an inaugural skating session.

The rink, featuring real ice and covering 550 square metres, is now officially open to the public.

The launch event was notable for its inclusivity, inviting over 80 guests from disability groups across the South West. Among the attendees were families from Children's Hospice South West, individuals from Langport charity bibic, and members of Nova Sports and Coaching. The Bath Romans Wheelchair Basketball Club's adult and youth teams also participated, highlighting the event's commitment to accessibility.

Chris Davis, Clarks Village Centre Director, said: "The ice rink brings a festive and fun activity for family and friends to enjoy," he said. He emphasized the inclusive nature of the rink, noting that every skating session is wheelchair friendly and that the centre also hosts regular quiet sessions.

The event also saw the switch-on of Clarks Village's Christmas lights and the opening of a Festive Market featuring independent stalls, which will run until Christmas.

Kylie Gallagher from Children's Hospice South West thanked Clarks Village for the invitation, noting the importance of such events in creating precious memories for families. Alex Johnson, director of Nova Sports, praised the inclusivity of the session, and Richard McVicker from the Bath Romans Wheelchair Basketball Team described the experience as "inclusive, safe, fun and involved everybody."

One of the younger attendees, 14-year-old Rosie Oliver from Wells, shared her excitement about ice skating for the first time and looking forward to Christmas in her new house.

The Clarks Village ice rink, open daily except Christmas Day until January 7, offers 45-minute skating sessions that are pre-bookable with skate hire included. The rink features quiet sessions, discos, and parent and toddler sessions, with penguin and seal skating aids available for hire. The facility is also wheelchair accessible and available for exclusive hire for private parties.