CIRENCESTER will be dancing on ice later this year when a skating rink is installed in the Abbey Grounds.

Town council chiefs want Cirencester to be a number one destination for Christmas shoppers and this week exclusively revealed to the Standard that an ice-skating rink would feature over the festive period.

The council's Christmas in Cirencester team hope to entice people to the market with the prospect of skating against the backdrop of the restored Cirencester Parish Church.

Following two average Christmas markets, Cirencester Town Council is determined that this year shoppers will flock to the town and hope the skating rink will be a real crowd-pleaser.

Cllr Shirley Alexander is spearheading Cirencester Makes Music, which organises local performers to entertain the Christmas market crowds.

"Whether it proves to be popular with shoppers or not, this is an excellent idea for the youngsters of Cirencester," she said.

"I think the skating rink will be great as it will give our young people something fun to do in the town, and something to look forward to.

"With the Olympics and the Queen's diamond jubilee events also gearing up to be one of the town's biggest celebrations, Cirencester really is the place to be this year."

Residents and visitors alike will be able to enjoy the festive addition between November 30 and December 16 when they can either hire skates and take part or sit and watch the action unfold while sipping on hot chocolate or mulled wine.

The heart of the town will also be transformed for the Christmas market with dozens of adorned wooden chalets selling hand crafted clothes, gifts and toys, together with festive food and drink.

The lantern procession will again take place on December 8 when a whole raft of other activities are planned including dedicated carol services for Christmas shoppers and live music from local performers.

For more details and to get involved call 01453 872731 or go to christmasincirencester.org.uk