Organisers of a popular Christmas event have confirmed it will not take place this year, leaving locals devastated.
Reigate on Ice has been an ice rink installed in Priory Park, Surrey, for the last few years in November and December.
Reigate and Banstead Council describe the event as one of the largest temporary winter rinks outside of London, suitable for skaters of all levels.
The attraction includes live music and family rides in addition to the skating rink.
In a statement released on Facebook, The Matthews Organisation, which runs the event, said: “We’re very sorry to share that Reigate on Ice will not be taking place this year.
“This has been an extremely difficult decision, and we know it will come as disappointing news to many who look forward to the rink as part of Reigate’s festive season.”
The statement continued: “Over the years, Reigate on Ice has become a cherished community event bringing families, friends and neighbours together to celebrate the magic of Christmas and we’re incredibly proud of what it has meant to so many.
“We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us, our visitors, local partners and the wider community for helping to make Reigate on Ice such a special part of Reigate’s winter celebrations.”
Locals have been left devastated after Reigate on Ice was cancelled this year
|The statement concluded by thanking readers for their understanding.
Many locals jumped to the comments underneath the Matthews Organisation’s Facebook post to express their disappointment.
One comment said: “Such a shame, we had such a good time last year.”
Another said: “That is so sad, we loved it last year.”
The attraction includes live music and family rides in addition to the skating rink
|A third comment said: “Shame as we loved the fireworks last year!”
The reason for the cancellation is unknown.
The Matthews Organisation has not ruled out the event happening in future years.
A spokesperson for Reigate and Banstead Council said: “We understand that many people will be disappointed by the Matthews Organisation’s decision not to run Reigate on Ice this year.
“We remain open to considering options to provide a Christmas ice rink in Reigate in future years.”
The event was previously cancelled in 2018 due to a dispute with the council over its location.
The ice rink caused damage and muddied the ground of the park, which left it fenced off for more than two months.
After residents criticised the council, they agreed the event could return to its original location in Priory Park.
This comes as a Shropshire fire station also cancelled their annual Christmas event this week due to budget concerns.
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