FESTIVE cheer is promised at Merry Hill which is hosting an array of Christmas-themed activities and community events plus a skating rink this December.

Free family-friendly activities will be officially launched on Saturday December 7, with the unveiling of the new rink, which uses an environmentally-friendly skating surface that mimics the glide of real ice - without the need for the large amount of water, electricity, or refrigeration that a normal ice rink requires.

The rink, which will feature twinkling lights, Christmas music and falling snow, will be open every day from 11am to 5pm, until Wednesday January 8, in the central event space on the lower mall, between M&S and Mango. It is free to skate, but booking is required.

The centre has also unveiled a new Christmas decorations scheme named ‘The Flight Before Christmas’ - inspired by the Flying Anvils sculpture at the centre by artist Paul Margetts and the hot air balloon in the original Jules Vern food court. The scheme features more than 50 hot air balloons delivering gifts for Christmas surrounded by large statement decorations.

There will also be performances throughout December from choirs including Got 2 Sing Choir, the Rock Choir, and the Salvation Army.

Environmental organisation Wild Earth Movement will also be at the Crafty Wrapper Station on the Upper Mall by H&M to help wrap visitor’s gifts in an environmentally-friendly way in exchange for a small charity donation. The Crafty Wrapper Station is open from Saturday December 14 to Wednesday December 18 at selected times.

Merry Hill’s centre manager Jonathan Poole said: “Christmas is such a special time for us and our visitors. We pride ourselves on offering our visitors a magical and easy experience whether they’re turning their to do list into festive bliss or enjoying time with friends and family.”

All festive events and performances are free and open to all ages.

For further information visit https://mymerryhill.co.uk/christmas.

Crafty Wrapper Station opening times:

Saturday December 14: 12pm to 6pm

Sunday December 15: 11am to 5pm

Monday December 16: 12pm to 8pm

Tuesday December 17: 12pm to 8pm

Wednesday December 18: 12pm to 8pm

Choir times:

Salvation Army

• Saturday December 7: 10am to 12.30pm

• Saturday December 21: 10am to 12.30pm

• Tuesday December 24: 10am to 12.30pm

Got 2 Sing

• Friday December 13: 1pm