BRAY'S first ever Ice Skating rink, 'Bray On Ice' opened its doors last Friday on Main Street Bray. Bray businesses have joined forces this Christmas and invested in the rink to boost footfall through their town over the festive period. Any profit made will be donated to local charities.

The previous night a group of invited guests enjoyed a sample spin on the ice, a dazzling demonstration of skill from professional skaters and a cup of hot chocolate and mince pies as the Cathaoirleach of Bray Cllr. John Ryan officially opened the seasonal attraction.

Earlier this year local businesses started the 'Shop Local' campaign to strengthen Bray's economy. Bray on Ice is one of the ideas to emerge from this campaign and has quickly developed into a major project thanks to the hard work of several local business people and and funding from Bray Town Council which invested €50,000 in the project.

As well as Bray Town council's investment, seventeen local businesses have each contributed €5000 to 'Bray On Ice' which will run for eight weeks until January 10.

It is expected that 30,000 visitors will pass through the rink over its eight week operation and it is hoped this increased traffic will be good for businesses all over the town.

Speaking at the launch , Cathaoirleach of Bray Town Council John Ryan praised local businesses for their willingness to invest in their town. '

Bray On Ice is creating 15 jobs for the season with potentially more jobs being created later in the season.

For full details on location, ticket prices and sponsor's details see www.brayonice.ie or call (087) 241 6322.