AN ice rink could be coming to Rayleigh this Christmas.

It is believed the icy festive attraction could be just the boost the town’s festive scene needs to attract more shoppers and families to the high street.

Councillor James Newport has now launched a campaign for the council to hire the rink.

The idea has so far garnered a lot of support since being mooted with the community via social media.

Mr Newport, a Rochford district councillor for Sweyne Park and Grange said: “The idea was that we often hear that, while there is plenty for couples and the elderly in Rayleigh, there are not enough facilities for families and children.

“So what I was hoping to build on was the success of the Christmas lights event which is always a big success.

“It is a great event but after they switch them on, everyone goes home. If there was an ice rink or something to entertain people then everyone would stay, boosting community spirit and the economy.

“It would also attract people from outside the town and bring business and tourism to the area.”

Mr Newport launched what he called a register of interest where residents could support the idea and provide the council with insight into whether it would be popular or not.

He added: “We’re not necessarily looking for the council to pay for it. We might be able to secure sponsorship for the idea from local businesses or the Chamber of Trade.”

King George VI Park has been suggested as a proposed site for the ice rink and Mr Newport is keen to get it sorted for Christmas later this year.

He added: “Our high street needs to be competitive with the likes of Lakeside that do these kinds of things at Christmas time.”

The petition has so far gained more than 150 signatures from Rayleigh residents since being posted on Mr Newport’s website this week.

He said: “I’m not really surprised with the response because it shows people do want family attractions and an ice rink is something for everyone.

“I’m hoping to give Rayleigh some added value. It doesn’t have to be costly and at the moment I’m just gauging interest.”

Mr Newport is hoping to get 1,000 signatures from Rayleigh residents before taking it as evidence of strong interest and support to Rochford District Council.

To show your support for an ice rink at Christmas time in Rayleigh town centre, you can sign Mr Newport’s petition by visiting www.jamesnewport.co.uk/ice-ice-baby