X Factor star Joe McElderry opens winter ice rink at Newcastle's Life Centre
X Factor winner and singer songwriter Joe McElderry added a dash of showbiz glam to Newcastle’s Times Square when he officially opened the Life Centre’s annual ice rink.
Singer and stage star Joe was joined by ice skaters from Newcastle University Skating Society who performed a routine to Run Rudolph Run, Backworth Colliery Band and competition winners last night (8 November) for a Christmas-themed celebration to open the ice rink for the season.
Life’s real ice outdoor rink is an established part of the festive calendar in the city and is now open until 5 January, providing skaters of all ages and abilities with the ultimate festive experience.
Joe, who is about to take to the stage at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal in Little Mermaid, said he was delighted to kick start the festive season at the Life Centre.
He said: “It’s great to be back at Life. I used to come here as a kid and spent many weekends with my dad here, so it’s lovely to be asked to open the ice rink and to get everybody in the festive spirit.
“Ice skating during the festive season is a lovely traditional and there’s no better place to do it than here.”
The rink in the city centre will be open daily until Sunday, January 5, with the exception of closures on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
The rink will be open from 9:30am until late each opening day. Times will change on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when the public can skate from 9:30am until the earlier closing time of 5:30pm.
The skating programme will also include relaxed sessions with adjusted lighting and noise levels for people with sensory needs and an early bird 20% discount is available for bookings up to Friday, November 15.
Tickets cost £15 for adults; £13.50 for those aged 10 and over and £11.50 for nine and under with separate charges for peak times.
Online booking is available through the Life Centre’s website.