This Christmas, Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

Each weekend in December, starting on Saturday 2, the ice rink will be covered with Christmas decorations and snow machines to create an extra special wintry feel for the skaters.

The wonderland includes a Santa’s Grotto, his elves and special appearances by Pop the Penguin.

Councillor Julia Jeapes is looking forward to the festive season in Chelmsford.

She said: “We’re very fortunate to have such a good ice rink in the city and it’s wonderful that we can transform Riverside again this December to create the perfect winter wonderland not just for the people of Chelmsford, but also for those from all over Essex to come and skate here.

“Although the Riverside redevelopment is well under way, the ice rink and leisure centre are still open and continue to provide excellent facilities for everyone.”

The winter wonderland will also be open for non-skaters to soak up the seasonal atmosphere and enjoy a mince pie and glass of mulled wine.

The winter wonderland will be open every weekend in December, including Christmas Eve.

Santa’s Grotto will be open from 10am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 5pm at a cost of £5.20 for skaters and £8.70 for non-skaters.

Weekend skate sessions will be £7.80 for leisure card holders and £8.80 for non-card holders. Family skate sessions will be £23.10 for card holders and £26.10 for non-card holders.

Under-fives are free, if they are visiting the grotto.