Get your skates on because tomorrow is the big day and the icy treat for families is ready to impress.

The city's winter wonderland that has transformed Castle Mall Gardens is ready to twinkle, skate and bounce with its attractions.

The Eastern Daily Press and Norwich Evening New's first ice rink is ready for budding skaters who have already brought tickets for the grand opening and little ones can join in with the festive fun thanks to the snowman bouncy castle courtesy of sponsor, Norwich International Airport. Work began on Sunday and in less that a week the final touches are being added to the majestic setting.

Malcolm Powles, owner of Victoria Marquees, said: 'It has been long hours but we have pulled it together in a short time by everyone chipping in. It looks great and we have been laying flooring, putting up the marquee, wrapping Christmas lights around trees and putting up sheds.'

Last night the ice was being layered, ready to host 70 people enjoying their hour session.

From tomorrow until Jauary 2, visitors will be greeted by twinkling fair lights and once inside families will be treated to seasonal stalls offering local produce and appearances from Disney princesses and even Santa Claus himself.

With the opportunity for 21,560 people to get on the ice while the hit attraction is open, it is the best way to kick off Christmas.

Nigel Pickover, editor of the EDP and the Norwich Evening News, said: 'This is the first time our newspapers have launched our very own ice rink, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than to glide around in the shadow of the castle.'

General manager of Norwich airport, Richard Pace, added: 'It's a great opportunity for a great day out in Norwich and we would urge people to get their tickets booked as soon as they can.'