The popular Reigate on Ice is returning to the beautiful setting of Priory Park and promises more sparkle and more fun than ever before.

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is pleased to welcome back the Matthews Organisation and its festive skating experience, which opens Friday 29 November and will run until Wednesday 1 January.

The ice rink, one of the largest temporary winter rinks outside of London, is suitable for skaters of all levels – from seasoned pros to total beginners. Covered by a clear span tent that will provide protection from the elements, visitors will be able to skate in the park whatever the weather.

Other attractions will include family rides, food stalls, a bar and live music.

A free Fireworks Display on Saturday 30 November will kick start the Reigate on Ice festivities and coincide with the Christmas light switch on event.

Tommy Matthews from the Matthews Organisation that is behind Reigate on Ice says: “We’re excited to be back in Reigate to bring you a festive experience like no other. Our stunning tent and state-of-the-art lighting will provide a magical setting where you can skate in style.

“But it’s not just about skating! You’ll also be able to enjoy family rides, live music, seasonal food stalls and there’s a fully-stocked alpine bar to keep the holiday cheer flowing. So, whether it’s a family day out, a romantic skate under the stars, or a festive night with friends, Reigate on Ice has something for everyone.

“Tickets are limited, so mark your calendars and come along and create magical memories this holiday season with us at Priory Park.”

Tickets are available to book as 45-minute sessions, from reigateonice.com.

Cllr Nadean Moses, Executive Member for Sustainability and Leisure says: “We want our parks to be enjoyed by as many people as possible throughout the year. Reigate on Ice is a popular, family-friendly activity that will attract visitors to the park and into the town centre too.

“The location of the rink will not affect football pitches or other clubs and activities that use the park and, being the size of roughly two tennis courts, will leave plenty of space for other park users to still enjoy the park.

“We take our responsibilities to look after our green spaces very seriously and have carefully considered how we can best protect the environment before, during and after the event. Our greenspaces team is working with the organisers to put in place innovative new measures to make sure the park is returned to its previous condition once the ice rink is removed.”

 Measures to protect the environment include verti-draining the ground in advance of the site set up to improve drainage and prevent compacting of the soil.

During the event, generators are necessary to keep the ice frozen as the mains system in the park is insufficient. The generators will run off a diesel alternative fuel which is cleaner, quieter and more biodegradable than conventional diesel and insulated flooring (such as that used under the ice rink in Hyde Park) will also help to keep the ice cold and reduce the amount of energy required.

Safety measures have also been considered and the site will have a perimeter fence, CCTV and be staffed 24/7. Lighting will be provided to illuminate pathways when the rink is open and switched off when closed and the site locked.

Following the removal of the ice rink the Council’s Greenspaces team will assess the ground before carrying out remedial works. The exact nature and timing of these works will depend on the weather over the winter months and the conditions of the site.