An ice rink has announced that they will not be opening their doors today, Christmas Eve, after the Met Office predicted winds speeds that would be "unsafe to skate in". 

 Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York has made the "difficult decision" to close their outdoor ice rink, the Ice Factor. 

The popular attraction has never experienced the unprecedented high temperatures and high winds that it has this December - despite being an annual feature of Yorkshire's festive fun for 18 years. 

Most, if not all ice rinks in the North will be closed due to the high winds and unseasonal temperatures. In York, the Met Office has predicted wind gusts of 46mph, and high temperatures of 14 degrees. 

Most, if not all ice rinks in the North will be closed due to these high winds and unseasonal temperatures.

Georgi Wood, event organiser of Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, said: “We are absolutely devastated to have to make the decision to close Christmas Eve.

"It is our favourite day of the season and we love welcoming so many families and being part of their Christmas traditions.

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"We only hope that by letting people know now, that they can plan their day.’’

"She added: “Our bigger and better funfair, along with our rinkside chalet and terrace has been a huge hit this year and will be open, so please do come and enjoy it and finish some last minute shopping in the outlet.’’

The Funfair and rinkside Chalet Cafe will be open from 10am – 5pm on Christmas Eve. The Ice Factor plans to reopen as usual on Boxing Day and will be at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York until Sunday, January 7.