LIVERPOOL’S hugely popular ice rink has returned to St George’s Hall for the festive period.

The 12m-by-12m rink opened for business on the plateau yesterday , and will remain there throughout the weekend, before moving inside on Monday.

From then, skaters can access the rink everyday, excluding Christmas Day, until January 4.

Leader of Liverpool City Council, Cllr Warren Bradley, said: “We are delighted to offer a festive experience to mark what has been a fantastic year for the city.”

And, until Monday, the Santa Experience will be giving youngsters the chance to chat with Father and Mother Christmas, at their specially prepared grotto in the Heritage Centre.

There’s also one last opportunity to enjoy an evening of fine dining in St George’s Hall’s Great Hall on Monday.

And with 2009 just around the corner, plans are already in place to repeat last year’s successful Viennese Balls.

The Spring Ball will take place on the evening of Saturday, March 21, with tickets available, priced £36, from today.

FOR more information on the ice rink, Santa Experience or dining in the Great Hall, call 0151 225 6909.

For Spring Ball 2009 tickets, call 0151 709 3789 or visit www.liverpoolphil.com