THE first set of people have taken to the ice as Northwich’s very first skating rink opened in Barons Quay earlier today, Friday.

Installed as part of the town’s Christmas Extravaganza, it is expected to be very popular as December draws nearer.

The rink is located in Barons Quay opposite H&M and will prove to be a realistic alternative to real ice.

It will be open between 2pm and 9pm today, Friday, and from 12pm through to 7pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3.50 for children aged 12 years and under.

Any remaining tickets are available to buy from the rink at Barons Quay between today and Sunday.

Each ticket allows 30 minutes skate time with a 15-minute changeover time.

Northwich will also hold its Christmas Extravaganza tomorrow, Saturday, which will include donkey rides, fairground rides, birds of prey, stilt walkers and a giant snow globe set to return.

Santa's Grotto will be open to youngsters, with entertainment elsewhere from Barnton Circus, a caricaturist and a fun house.

The Christmas Bauble Trail will be perfect for budding detectives, and there will be festive treats aplenty at the Witton Street Christmas Markets.

Visitors can also enjoy face painting, glitter tattoos, gingerbread decorating and balloon modelling at the craft village outside PoundStretcher.

The Christmas Extravaganza will be peak with the lantern parade, light switch-on and firework display.

“This year’s schedule of activities is more comprehensive than ever, and I can’t wait to see visitors enjoying everything that has been organised,” said Northwich BID manager Jane Hough

“It’s going to be a really fun day for the whole family and hopefully everyone will feel like they’ve got that Christmas spirit after attending.”

Town council clerk Chris Shaw added: “Every year we try to improve upon what went before, and we feel as though 2019’s event will achieve this.

"It’s shaping up to be a brilliant afternoon so make sure you come into town to check it out.”