BOURNEMOUTH'S biggest ever outdoor ice rink opens today in the Lower Gardens.

The rink is expected to attract around 30,000 people over the Christmas period, and can be found in a new location near the vacant Bournemouth balloon site.

Delivered by THIS Event Co Ltd, the rink is set to get bigger and better each year, with plans for further expansions in the future.

And as the final preparations are put in place for this Friday's festive lights switch on in town, shoppers will also have seen the alpine village being set-up over the past few days.

On Friday, there will be entertainment throughout the town, including The Triangle, town centre and Lower Gardens.

There will be a giant teddy bear lit up at The Triangle, with trees adorned with festive lights through the gardens and town.

Boutique stalls will serve up tasty treats from local suppliers and the two-storey Alpine Lodge will be offering mulled wine and food as refreshments.

This year the ice rink will include a separate facility for youngsters, as well as Gliders, an ice bowling team game.

A cafe bar will be offering food and drink as well.

Ice rink developer THIS Event Co is still awaiting planning permission. But the council has said that an approval by planning officers is expected this week.

It will be open until Tuesday, January 2, excluding Christmas Day, with hour long skating sessions between 10.30am and 10pm.

There is capacity for 225 skaters per session.

Go to iceskatebournemouth.co.uk for more information.