Heart Radio Breakfast Presenters James Heming and Becky Ives will open the Tunbridge Wells Ice Rink on Friday 18 November 2016.  The presenters are well known for brightening up mornings across Kent hosting Heart Radio’s breakfast show.

The opening night of the ice rink kicks off at 5.45pm with Tunbridge Wells Rock Choir singing a selection of well-known hits along with some Christmas songs.

There will also be performances from Silver Blades Gillingham and The Invicta Junior Hockey Club from 6-7pm.

Silver Blades will be showcasing a variety of their very own talent with a skating performance from their Christmas show Alice in Wonderland as well as solo and group numbers. Skaters taking part are British Medallist Jodie Russell (2015 British solo junior ice dance championship) and Courtney Wagon (3^rd at the British solo dance championships 2016).  Performer’s ages range from 11 – 19 years old.

The under 9s Invicta Buckaroos and under 11s Invicta Stampedes will follow with a display of youth sport showing the excitement of the game starting with some hockey skating drills followed by a short match – something for everyone.

To get you in the festive spirit, the ice will then be opened to the public for the first time this season from 8-9pm. Heart Radio presenters will be turning up the sounds and playing a mix of classic party tunes which are sure to include hits from the 90’s, noughties and now.  Pre-booking is recommended. The Heart Angels will be helping to bring this wonderful event to life armed with reindeer antlers for the children and adults of course, making sure to capture all feel good moments from the night for a festive photo gallery on heart.co.uk.

Cabinet Member Councillor Jane March says: ‘The ice rink opening night looks set to be an exciting event that will be enjoyable for all ages, so come along and join the fun.’

Councillor March added: ‘When the ice rink opens in Royal Tunbridge Wells, it’s a sign that Christmas is coming!’

The Royal Tunbridge Wells Ice Rink will be open from Friday 18 November – Monday 2 January 2017 in the beautiful splendour of Calverley Grounds.

credit: Jez Timms

Tickets can be bought either at www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com or from the Assembly Hall Theatre Box Office in person or by calling 01892 554645.  The onsite Box Office will be open from 18 November.  The cost for one hour’s skating, including hire of skating boots, will cost from £7.00 for children and £10.50 for adults.  Student prices are £9.50 and Go! Card £7.

The opening night of the ice rink is part of ‘The Big Christmas Get Together’ being implemented by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together and is part of a three day programme of festive celebrations across the town.  For further details please visit www.www.tunbridgewellstogether.co.uk.

The Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Ice Rink is supported by AXA PPP Healthcare, the Kent and Sussex Courier, Heart, Index Magazine and Deliveroo.