AN ice-skating rink will be one of the attractions at this year's Windermere Christmas Celebration thanks to a generous donation from the Lakes Hospitality Association.

Organisers of the event over the weekend December 14 and 15 said the association would cover the cost of the rink provided that admission to the attraction is 'ring-fenced' to ensure the future of the event.

 Councillor Ben Berry, Chairman of Windermere Christmas Celebration, said: “I’m very happy to announce our plans to have an ice rink at this year’s Christmas Celebration.

"We would like to thank the Lakes Hospitality Association for their generosity and hope the residents and visitors are as excited about this news as we are.”

The Windermere Christmas Celebration, now in its fourth year, will see around sixty craft, food and drink stalls and stands spring up around the centre of the village.

MORE TOP STORIES:

The organisers are even hoping to extend the markets onto Crescent Road this year. Event director Kate Barton said: “After our successes over previous years our plan is to make this year’s the biggest and best yet.

"I know people will especially love sipping mulled wine, listening to festive music, while watching people enjoy our real ice rink.”

The ice rink itself will open early on Friday December 13 with the rest of the festivities opening on Saturday 14 at 10 am until 7pm and Sunday 11 am until 4 pm.