Oakengates Christmas ice-rink plans are melting

Hopes for a spectacular ice-rink during the Christmas lights switch-on in a Shropshire town are melting fast. Not a single donation has been made towards the plan, organisers said today.

Traders in Oakengates in Telford are desperate to raise £1,500 for the mobile rink planned for the switch-on on November 26.

But today Christine Orford, chairman of Oakengates Chamber of Trade, said she has not received a single donation towards it and said there was just 72 hours until the deadline for payment runs out.

"No one has come forward and it is such a shame. It would be great for the town and traders.

"I had one call from someone expressing an interest, but as yet we have received no money. I have called all of the big businesses, like the supermarkets, and they have offered raffle prizes but no money.

"We really need to have the money by Wednesday, or Thursday at the latest, so time is running out."

The idea, dubbed Oakenskates, was a winner with residents and traders when it was first suggested last month.

It was planned to site the rink outside The Place @ Oakengates Theatre where families could enjoy the facility during the lights switch-on ceremony.

Mrs Orford said: "If 20 businesses contributed, it would only cost £75 each.

"This is a last push to get the money together."

Local businesses and traders can pledge their support for the festive ice-rink by contacting Mrs Orford on (01952) 274871.