Go! Southampton on the WestQuay ice rink at Christmas

As previously reported, SKATE will not bring its popular attraction to WestQuay this year due to the pandemic and limited resources.

The company will be setting up a rink in Bournemouth, but Giles Semper, executive director of Go! Southampton, the city's BID, says its still "very difficult" to put on events.

Southampton Christmas Ice Rink called Skate opens at WestQuay.

He told the Echo: "We know from our own experience that it is still very difficult to put on any events and high street activations.

"Our own Christmas Lights Switch-On has been affected and we don’t believe things will return to normal until well into 2022.

"Fortunately Southampton will have plenty of other festive activity for residents and visitors to enjoy. Compared to this time last year, the streets will be alive. The city is definitely in for a busy and exciting Christmas period.

"Never fear, Southampton, you will skate again!"

Giles Semper.

The ice rink was cancelled last year due to Covid, and in previous years has been announced as early as September.

But all was kept quiet this year, and after weeks of questioning by the Echo, organisers finally revealed the ice rink will not take place due to "pressure on resources, staff and materials".

Simon Smith, director of THIS Event Co, which runs the rink, said: "It is with regret that we confirm that SKATE, our prestigious annual outdoor winter ice rink at WestQuay, will not take place in 2021.

"Pressure on resources, staff and materials alongside the ongoing risks of Covid-19 have prompted THIS Event Co. to reduce our operations this Winter, and as such our ice rink in Southampton will not be taking place.

"Our closest ice rink will be in Bournemouth. We apologies to our loyal customers in Southampton, for any disappointment caused, and hope to be back in 2022."