Queen of the ice skating rink and Olympic medallist Beth Tweddle said Chester had been 'crying out' for a Christmas event like the Winter Wonderland.
Speaking after cutting the ribbon and officially opening the attraction at the Racecourse last night, the gymnastics legend said she was delighted to be part of the festivities.
Beth, a former Queen’s School pupil, attended the event with her parents and enjoyed petting the reindeer before switching on the lights.
The 28-year-old, who won ITV's Dancing on Ice earlier this year and has retired from professional gymnastics, said: “I went to school in Chester and grew up in Chester, so it is really nice to be part of the festivities.
“Chester has been crying out for an event like this around Christmas. It is so magical at Christmas around Chester with all the buildings and the lights. It is a real family event.”
Beth stepped out onto the ice to cut the ribbon with members of the Deeside Ice Skating Group, but no one was able to skate as the ice wasn’t fully set in time for the launch.
“No one will be skating tonight,” said Beth, quashing rumours she was due to put on her skates for the opening.
“I am about to shoot off to London. Myself and Daniel (her skating partner) are going to the states in three-weeks-time for a live NBC show. That is really exciting,” said Beth.
Rachel Flint interviews Beth Tweddle at Chester Racecourse.
