Families looking for a cool way to spend time before Christmas can visit New Ash Green for free festive fun and ice skating.

Sevenoaks District Council has organised for a free ice rink to be placed in the North Square car park between 10am and 6pm on Saturday.

As well as skating there will be a Santa’s Grotto, a snow globe, bouncy castle and a festive market selling food such as hot chocolate with Baileys, gourmet burgers, wild boar sandwiches, waffles and pulled pork.

There will also be homemade sweet decorations, organic skin care, jewellery and various stalls selling ladies accessories and clothing.

The activities will be open between 10am and 3pm and will be close to the village centre so visitors can take advantage of the nearby shops and eateries, a short walk from the action.

Cllr Roddy Hogarth, portfolio holder for economic and community development, said: “This is sure to be a really fun popular event at this time of year and I’m really pleased we’ve been able to offer this for free and give a little back to the community.”

The 100 metre square rink can accommodate up to 30 skaters and no special equipment is needed as skates will be supplied. There’s no need to book, but come early as the rink is expected to be popular at peak times.

The rink itself is made from synthetic ice and performs virtually the same as a real ice rink with the advantage that it’s possible to skate no matter what the weather

This event has been organised by Sevenoaks District Council and the New Ash Green Town Team with funding from Sport England, Richmond Lodge Management and New Ash Green Village Association.