Preparations underway for Winterland's return

Preparations have started for the return of Waterfront Winterland to Swansea.

Workers are now on site in the grounds of the National Waterfront Museum to pave the way for the return of the attraction on Sunday November 15.

The Admiral ice-rink will again feature as well as the 44-metre high Admiral giant wheel, the traditional carousel, the snow storm ride and a range of stalls and refreshments.

A mini ice-rink for children called Rocky's Rink has also been added to this year's line-up as well as a covered area for spectators and a new Chair-o-Plane funfair ride.

Live entertainment is taking place at Waterfront Winterland every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and a new 16-page brochure about the attraction is now available in venues in and around Swansea.

Waterfront Winterland's return will coincide with the Christmas Parade when Santa Claus will lead a variety of floats and a walking procession through the city centre from 5pm.

Swansea Council is behind the events and has also arranged for a special Sunday Christmas park and ride service that will kick-off from Sunday November 15.

The first buses will leave the park and ride car parks of Fabian Way, Fforestfach and Landore on November 15 at 9.35am with the last buses returning from the city centre at 7.45pm. Buses will operate every 12 minutes between these times.

Normal city centre park and ride bus stops will be in use until 4pm and, after that time, all city centre park and ride departures will take place from Wellington Street.

The special Christmas park and ride service will also operate every Sunday afterwards until December 20. The first buses will leave the park and ride car parks at 9.35am and the last buses will leave the city centre at 5.45pm.

Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: "Preparations for both Waterfront Winterland and the switch-on of the Christmas lights are now underway and excitement is starting to build.

"We're keen to ensure the visitor experience is as positive and memorable as possible so this is why planning in advance is so crucial."

Have a look at www.swanseachristmas.com or www.waterfrontwinterland.com for more information and the opportunity to book ice-skating tickets online.

Waterfront Winterland is kindly supported by Admiral, Swansea Council's Road Safety department, Swansea Sound, The Wave and the National Waterfront Museum.