AMBITIOUS plans have been announced that will see part of Darwen transformed into an outdoor ice rink.

Funding has been made available to install a synthetic mini arena in the market square.

People are being invited to get their skates on in the hope the move will encourage more shoppers and tourism into the area.

Event organisers in Darwen are calling on local groups to join them during three-days of activities to ‘Discover Darwen’.

The event will take place during the half-term break next month.

It will feature an ice rink, speciality food, craft taster sessions, food demonstrations using local produce, Irish dancing, a disco roadshow and lots of other activities.

The funding has been received from the newly formed Neighbourhood Board which was given £50,000 last year to spend on local projects.

Elyse Chatterton, project manager, said the three-day spectacular was one to look forward to.

She said: “We are really excited about this three-day event and we want groups and organisations to come on board and shout about what they do best.

“We hope to bring lots of people into Darwen town centre, locals and visitors alike, to make sure they ‘Discover Darwen’ at its best.”

Market trader Eileen Guy said: “There are two benefits to having the event in Darwen. It’s about encouraging more shoppers and people into Darwen and to give the kids something to do.”

The event will take place in the town centre on February 19, 20 and 21.

Groups or individuals wanting to book a place at the event should contact Elyse Chatterton on 07974942224 or call into The Grotto in the market hall, Darwen.