Skate into 08 in Liverpool. (Garston and Halewood Liberal Democrats)

Garston and Halewood Liberal Democrats <info@garstonld.org.uk>

Skate into 08 in Liverpool.

December 13, 2007 12:00 AM

A 12 metre by 12 metre rink will enable up to 50 people at a time skate around the magnificent Great Hall inside the Grade 1 listed St George's Hall on Lime Street in Liverpool.

Skaters will be accompanied by a wide selection of music and to add to the seasonal spirit, hot chocolate and mulled wine will be available.

The building was re-opened by His Royal Highness earlier this year following a five year, £23 million makeover which saw it restored to its former glory, incorporating a Heritage Centre, upgraded courts and prison cells open to the public.

Councillor Warren Bradley Leader of Liverpool City Council and Deputy Chair of the Liverpool Culture Company said:

"St George's Hall is the jewel in Liverpool's architectural crown, and we really want as many people as possible to enjoy its splendour."

"The indoor ice rink illustrates how one of the city's most iconic buildings can be used in a really imaginative way. During 2008 we will be programming a variety of exciting events so that the people of Liverpool can enjoy this amazing space and the great facilities it has to offer."

Liverpool's Lord Mayor, Councillor Paul Clark, added:

"The ice rink will bring the Great Hall alive, attracting people inside and giving them a chance to take a break from last minute Christmas shopping and get into the festive mood in a safe environment."

"The Lady Mayoress and I are very much looking forward to putting on our skates, going for a spin and gliding our way to Capital of Culture year!"

The Ice Rink (St will be open from 10am until 8pm (last admission 7.20 pm), from Friday 21 December until Saturday 5 January, closing only on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Tickets for a 30 minute skate are available from St George's Hall Heritage Centre. Pre-booking is advised and tickets can be reserved by calling

0151 225 6909, (booking fee £1 per transaction).

Local businesses are also being offered the opportunity to hire the rink for the evening for corporate entertainment.

The rink is made of a synthetic material which is sprayed to give it the appearance of ice, meaning there is no risk of damage to the floor of the Great Hall.