ICE FACTOR 'IS A HOT ATTRACTION'

YORK'S open air ice rink has attracted almost 10,000 skaters from all over the country in its first ten days. Now organisers are confident The Ice Factor will break last year's record of almost 35,000 - and could even have attracted 50,000 skaters by the time it closes down in January.

Not even the wet weather has deterred people from taking to the rink near Clifford's Tower."It actually makes the ice better to skate on. It's more "glidey," said spokeswoman Maria Farrugia. "The professional skaters love it."

She said skaters had come from all over Britain, particularly last weekend, when hundreds of cnachloads of visitors were in York for the St Nicholas Fayre. "They arrived at St George's Field car park, so they walked straight Past the rink on their way in to town.

"The Ice Factor is proving to be the hottest - or should it be the coolest - outdoor attraction this Christmas, and one of the most prestigious outdoor rinks in the UK."

One skater, Julie Weldon, from London, said: "I think The Ice Factor is the most picturesque rink I've seen, and has a real charm and intimacy about it compared to some of the London rinks."

Jessica Howden, 26, a novice skater, of Malton, said she came to the Ice Factor last year to skate for the first time and got hooked. She said: "It's fantastic fun, great exercise and it feels so festive too. Then my friends and I have a good laugh in the bar afterwards watching everybody else."

The rink is offering skaters a remarkable opportunity - to he coached by a former member of the Russian National Figure Skating Team.

World-class skater Svetlana Nalimova, will be offering private coaching sessions on the ice from Monday until Sunday December 17. "Ms Nalimova has won numerous medals in international competitions including the Russian Cup," said Maria. "She is currently touring the UK with The Imperial Ice Stars' acclaimed production of Swan Lake On Ice, as part of a two-year world tour.

"This is a rare opportunity for beginners to get vital tips on technique from the outset, or for more experienced skaters to take their skating up a few levels." The one-hour private lesson can he shared by up to four people and costs £25 per person, including entry to the rink and skate hire. To book a lesson, phone 01653 619169.