Ice and easy does it for skating fans

The rink, at Harbour Park on the seafront, is not real ice but a plastic substitute, sprayed with a special gel covering. The result is a realistic ice rink where skaters wear real ice-skates and can skate all-year-round without getting cold.

Gary Smart, who owns Harbour Park, said the rink was a great addition to the amusements and would remain for as long as it was used.

"It's a permanent feature," he said. "We've had to remove the play area to fit it in but it's a much better use of the space. We felt we wanted to attract people here with something they can't do locally, and ice-skating is one of them."

The rink was installed following the success of a temporary one put up outside Harbour Park last October.

Up to 45 people can skate at any one time on the rink and Harbour Park plans to make it available to hire out for birthday parties and hold themed skating nights.

The rink, which cost about 50,000, was made in Germany and installed by an English company, Ice Magic.

Skating costs 3 for children and 4 for adults, including skate hire. At busy times, half-hour sessions will be held.

Disabled people who cannot stand un-aided can also have access to the rink by using a special chair fitted with ball-bearings on the bottom.

Littlehampton mayor David Dyball said: "I'd like to congratulate Gary on the new ice-rink and also thank him for his ongoing investment into tourism in the town."