ICE skating fans in the Isle of Man are set to be disappointed after it was revealed the temporary ice rink will not be returning this winter.

The rink, which is co-owned by ex-England ruby player Kyran Bracken, is normally located in the Villa Marina gardens throughout December.

It is believed that the owners of the rink took the decision not to return due to the fact the rink didn't attract enough customers during the five week period it was here for last Christmas.

Sure sponsored the rink each time it was set up in the Island - in December 2009 and in July and December in 2010.

The company has issued the following statement: "Sure regrets to announce that Sure Skate will not be returning to the Island this winter. We are reviewing the long term future of the event with the possibility of it returning in the future."

Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney MHK said: "It's a shame for all the people who enjoyed skating there the past couple of years.

"However I understand the decision not to return to the Villa gardens was taken for commercial reasons and that's a matter for the operator."

The owners of the ice rink have been approached for comment - isleofman.com is waiting to hear back from them.

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