SKATERS took their first faltering steps on an outdoor ice rink at its opening yesterday.

Middlesbrough officials decided to reintroduce the attraction as part of this year's seasonal festivities, following the success of last year's rink.

Based on the theme of Fire and Ice, the attraction will continue through Christmas and into the New Year.

The theme was symbolised yesterday by Stockton-born champion ice dancer Debbie Keeley, 17, who showed off her skills on the rink, while fire juggler Martin Burton put on pyrotechnic displays.

Judith Croft, leisure team manager at Middlesbrough Borough Council, said: "We wanted to do something extra special to launch the rink, and the fire and ice theme has been great fun this year, with local schools making costumes for the Ice Magic carnival.

"The ice rink proved an incredible success last year, with thousands of skaters enjoying the thrill of skating in the open air to classic seasonal songs.

"This time there's even more of a traditional scene around the outdoor rink, with choirs, Christmas trees and thousands of twinkling fairy lights."

The rink, which has been constructed outside the town hall from 80 tonnes of ice, will be open Sunday to Wednesday, from 10.30am to 8pm, and Thursday to Saturday, from 10.30am to 9.30pm, until January 6.

School and corporate sessions are available. Skating costs £4.20 for adults and £3.20 for children.