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GET YOUR SKATES ON

Are ice rinks open again in the UK?

ICE rinks reopen for the first time in months this weekend as lockdown restrictions ease.

Here is everything you need to know about your first time back on the ice.

⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

Ice skating is back as lockdown measures in England are eased from August 15
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Ice skating is back as lockdown measures in England are eased from August 15Credit: Getty Images - Getty

When will ice rinks open again in the UK?

Ice rinks can reopen from August 15 as lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson previously announced rinks - along with other leisure activities and venues - could throw open their doors from August 1.

But he was forced to postpone the date until this weekend due to a rise in Covid-19 infections.

Skaters must adhere to social distancing with people outside of their household
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Skaters must adhere to social distancing with people outside of their householdCredit: Getty Images - Getty

How will social distancing work at ice rinks?

The PM has warned that ice rinks must operate as Covid-secure facilities.

This means visitors will be expected to book slots online in order to reduce attendance.

There will be a cap on the number of people allowed to skate on the ice at any one time.

No purchases with cash will be accepted on-site to stop the spread of infection.

Visitors to rinks must book slots online in order to reduce numbers on the ice
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Visitors to rinks must book slots online in order to reduce numbers on the iceCredit: Getty Images - Getty

In addition, cafe and bar areas will remain closed, but vending machines will be available.

Hand sanitising stations will be set up and some rinks have closed changing room facilities until further notice.

Whitley Bay Ice Rink has introduced a rule of one spectator per skater and sessions will be limited to one hour.

Mr Johnson warned the government would not hesitate "to apply the brakes" if measures were not being followed, which could cause a second spike in infections.

What should I do if I work at an ice rink?

Employees should be trained regarding the new guidelines to ensure guests are in compliance with the new measures.

Contact your manager to find out more information about training before returning to work.

New hand-washing routines are expected to be introduced and staff are likely to be told to wear mask.

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