DANCING on Ice star Vicky Ogden and Olympian Robin Cousins will open Bournemouth’s outdoor Christmas ice rink on Friday.

Vicky, a professional on the ITV ice skating show, will join the show’s judge and Olympic gold medallist to officially launch the new Gardens of Light Festival at 6pm.

The Bournemouth Town Centre BID company is attempting to transform the Lower Gardens into a winter wonderland this festive season with interactive lighting installations, the outdoor ice rink and a Santa’s Grotto.

The attractions will open on Saturday and remain until January 6, 2014.

Vicky, who was paired with comedian Joe Pasquale in the last series of the popular TV show, will demonstrate her fire and ice routine. Robin, who skated for the first time at the old Westover Road ice rink in Bournemouth, will also take to the rink, being operated by his company Cousins Entertainment, Lighting designer Michael Grubb, who worked on the master plan for the London 2012 Olympic Park, will open his new Bournemouth Light Pods with help from children representing the Wave 105 Cash for Kids charity.

There will also be an appearance from Father Christmas, giving a glimpse of the new grotto in the gardens.

Lisa Tucker, chairman of the Town Centre BID Board, said: “At the launch, we will be giving our guests a first look at the wonderful winter wonderland that Bournemouth town centre has in store to entertain everyone this Christmas.

“We are looking forward to welcoming two skating stars to Bournemouth to show us what can be done with our bigger and better ice rink.”