YOUNGSTERS can put their skates on for some midsummer winter sports this weekend when a mobile ice rink comes to a Southampton park.

Children have the chance to give the sport a go in Mansel Park, Millbrook.

It is part of the mammoth SO16 festival, which has kept hundreds of youngsters entertained this summer with free activities every day of the week.

The ice rink, which will be open from 2pm until 10pm on Sunday, is one of the highlights of the festival.

Organiser Marie Draper said: "Everyone is really excited about getting an ice rink for a day.

"It will definitely be a real treat, although it does sound strange going ice skating when it is so hot outdoors."

The ten metres squares of mobile rink will be staffed by the council's team of junior neighbourhood wardens.

They will be in charge of handing out ice skates and collecting money.

Each session costs £1, including skate hire.

The rink, for adults and children, has been funded with more than £3,000 from the Southampton West Neighbourhood Partnership, the Children's Fund and Local Network Fund. It is also being supported by Outer Shirley Regeneration and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Youth Options.