Coventry's big wheel cheaper than festive ice rink - council

Outdoor ice skating will not be returning to Coventry this Christmas due to the "alternative offer" of a big wheel, the council has said.

A temporary ice rink was set up in Broadgate during the festive season last year, and featured in the cathedral ruins before that.

But this time, the main square has a giant wheel for visitors instead.

The city council said it was a "fresh attraction", and "cheaper" and "accessible" for more residents.

"We work closely with a number of partners on our Christmas offer with the aim of making the city centre a vibrant place for visitors," a spokesperson explained.

The local authority added the big wheel in Broadgate along with the Christmas market came at no cost to it, with the wheel part of a profit share agreement to bring in income.

Standard tickets for the 100ft (30m) high attraction cost £8, and £6 for children under 1.4m tall.

Cheaper group tickets are also available and there is a gondola adapted for wheelchairs, with carers allowed to ride free.

The nearest alternative ice rinks to Coventry are at Warwick Castle and Birmingham.

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