Court's icy order over rink noise

The court said the rink's music was affecting its operations

York faces losing its festive ice rink after complaints its noisy music is disrupting trials at the nearby court.

The city's crown court said The Ice Factor's current location near Clifford's Tower was "incompatible" with its operations.

Organisers said they must now find a new site by 2010 and only play music after 1700 GMT when the court sits.

They said this might not be possible and the future of the rink could be in jeopardy as a result.

The outdoor skating rink, which is situated next to the law courts at the Eye of York, has been attracting visitors since 2004.

York Crown Court said in a statement: "Unfortunately, the operation of the ice rink in its current location is incompatible with the operation of the crown court which is very close by.

"We are therefore pleased that York City Council has accepted that Eye of York will not be the venue for the ice rink after this coming season.

'Christmas spirit'

"To avoid disruption to the serious criminal trials which take place in the court, it has been agreed that no music will be played or loud speakers used before 1700 GMT on days that the court is sitting."

James Cundall, chief executive of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions which runs The Ice Factor, said he was disappointed by the decision.

"The public are going to be deprived of something that they enjoy," he told BBC Radio York.

"The Ice Factor has come to epitomise the Christmas spirit in York and it will probably be one of the only major cities in the UK not to have an ice rink."

Executive producer Maria Farrugia added: "We have spent five years building up this event and are very proud of what we have done for the people of York.

"However, this is now in jeopardy as there may not be a big enough site to use as an alternative."