Ice stars to perform in York

INTERNATIONAL ice-skating champions are set to perform in York to mark the opening of the city's Christmas ice rink - as The Press teams up with the organisers of the event.

Three-time Russian champion Olga Sharutenko will perform alongside her fellow countryman, Vadim Yarkov, at the Ice Factor, in the magical setting of the Eye of York, overlooked by Clifford's Tower The pair are both members of the Imperial Ice Stars troupe and will perform in full costume scenes from Swan Lake On Ice, which is currently touring the country.

A spokeswoman for The Ice Factor said: "We would love for everyone to come down and see these performers in action."

Last year, Olga performed a solo ice dance at the opening of the rink and she has since partnered John Barrowman in ITV's Dancing On Ice programme.

More than 35,000 people flocked to the rink during last year and organisers hope to attract even more this Christmas. The Press has also backed the event and will help promote the festive rink, with major benefits to readers.

Skaters will be able to contribute to charity When You Wish Upon A Star, which makes dreams come true for sick children at a special wishing well outside the rink.

The spokeswoman said: "It would be nice to think that the children who are able to come down on the ice rink and have a skate would be able to play a part in helping children who might not be able to."

The rink will still be built around an oak tree, but will be slightly bigger this year to give more room to skaters. There will also be an improved caf and bar area and a set of new ice skates.

The rink, sponsored by Fenwick department store, will be officially opened on November 17 and will be open to the public from November 18, and then run until January 7.

It will open each day at 10am with the final skate being from 8.30pm to 9.45pm. The price of admission will be £7.95 for adults and £6.50 for children, with family packages and concessions available.