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Skating into Christmas as Joe McElderry launches Life’s outdoor ice rink 

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Joe McElderry with figure skaters at Life Science Centre's ice rink launch event.
Life's iconic logo is featured at the entrance to the science centre.

Life communications

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X Factor winner and singer songwriter Joe McElderry brought an X-tra dash of showbiz glitter to Newcastle’s Times Square, as he officially opened Life’s annual open-air ice rink.

Singer and stage star Joe was joined by ice skaters from Newcastle University Skating Society who performed a routine to Run Rudolph Run, Backworth Colliery Band and competition winners last night (8 November) for a Christmas-themed celebration to open the ice rink for the season.

Life’s real ice outdoor rink is an established part of the festive calendar in the city and is now open until 5 January, providing skaters of all ages and abilities with the ultimate festive experience.

Joe, who is about to take to the stage at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal in Little Mermaid, said he was delighted to kick start the festive season at Life.

“It’s great to be back at Life. I used to come here as a kid and spent many weekends with my dad here, so it’s lovely to be asked to open the ice rink and to get everybody in the festive spirit. Ice skating during the festive season is a lovely traditional and there’s no better place to do it than here.”

Joe McElderry
Young boy assisted by mum and skating aid on Life Science Centre in Newcastle's outdoor ice rink.

Life’s outdoor ice rink attracts hordes of eager skaters throughout its seasonal run and as well as regular skating sessions, there are a range of special events on the rink including Sam Fender and Taylor Swift-themed nights, karaoke on ice and the coolest silent disco in town!

The skating programme will also include relaxed sessions with adjusted lighting and noise levels for people with sensory needs and an early bird 20% discount is available for bookings up to 15 November. Tickets cost £15 for adults; £13.50 for those aged 10 and over and £11.50 for nine and under with separate charges for peak times (21 to 24 December inclusive).

Online booking is recommended and for more details visit our ice skating page.

 Little Mermaid runs at the Theatre Royal in Newcastle from 26 November to 12 January. For more information visit Theatre Royal’s website.

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