LIVERPOOL’S majestic St George’s Hall has been turned into an ice rink for the festive season, offering skaters a unique winter experience.

The 144sq m rink opened its doors yesterday and one of the first customers to don his skates was Lord Mayor, Cllr Paul Clark, who officially opened the attraction.

It is hoped the rink will bring in 500-600 people a day over the coming weeks and if successful will return to give the public a seasonal opportunity to experience the grand interior of the building.

Hall manager Alan Smith said: “The hall is a magnificent building and it gives people the opportunity to see inside, whilst enjoying the skating and festive atmosphere. We also have a snow-like substance falling on people, which is a lovely touch.”

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.

There is a bar in situ and organ music playing all day, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Mr Smith said: “We want people to really enjoy the skating and that is why we only let 50 people on at a time.”

He added the hall did not expect to make a profit this year, but wanted to showcase the space and see if the event could be a viable yearly enterprise.

Cllr Clark said: “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 rink will open from 10am-8pm (last admission 7.20pm) until Saturday January 5, 2008, 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, St John’s Lane. Pre-booking is advised and tickets can be reserved by calling 0151 225 6909 (booking fee £1 per transaction).

Tickets cost £6, £5 for concessions and £15 for a family ticket, which admits two adults and two children.

Businesses are also being offered the opportunity to hire the rink for the evening.

lizawiliams