Bognor's Christmas ice rink cancelled due to coronavirus
Organisers say the event won't be returning to the seafront in 2020
The annual Christmas Ice Rink in Bognor will not take place in 2020 due to the continued risk of coronavirus, organisers have confirmed.
It would've been the fourth consecutive year the popular attraction would've been held in Place St Maur, close to the seafront.
Arun District Council confirmed they had been in discussion with organisers the Cole Family over whether the popular attraction could go ahead and have looked at possible ways of making it Covid-secure.
However, it was felt that for the safety of residents and visitors, Ice Skating on the Prom should not open this year.
Councillor Dr James Walsh, Leader of Arun District Council and Cabinet Member for Economy, said:
“This was supposed to be the fourth year in a row that the town has hosted a real ice rink and it’s very disappointing that it can’t go ahead this season.
"We looked at other options, including other possible venues, but unfortunately nothing was viable.
“The welfare of residents and visitors is our prime concern and as we are again under national restrictions to try to tackle rising infection rates across the whole country, both the Council and the organisers felt the only option was to cancel this fantastic attraction this year, but hopefully welcome it back next Christmas.”
James Cole from organisers the Cole Family, said:
“We are sorry that the ice rink can’t go ahead this year as we know how much people enjoy it, but having discussed all the options, we felt there was no way of making it work following the latest Government announcements.
“We apologise for the disappointment this will cause to our customers, but we want everyone to stay safe and we fully intend to be back next year for more fun on the ice!”