HUNDREDS of revellers gathered in the heart of Didcot's Orchard Centre for the opening of a cool winter attraction.

For one week only Didcot's first outdoor ice rink has transformed the shopping centre into a winter wonderland.

Figure skaters and cheerleaders from Didcot Cheer, including skater Tori Strange, front, performed routines to celebrate the opening of the rink, organised by Didcot First - a group set up to change people's perceptions of the railway town.

The ribbon was cut by chairman of South Oxfordshire District Council, Pat Dawe.

The £14,000 rink is set up in the amphitheatre area next to Sainsbury's and is open until Sunday. All skates are provided.

Mother-of-two, Marcia Blackman of Ladygrove, said: "It's nice to have an attraction like this in the town."

The rink is open daily from noon until 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. It costs £2 per session.