The opening of Dundee Winterfest has been delayed – after organisers said equipment to set up the ice rink was held up at customs.
M&N Events announced that the Slessor Gardens festival would not be getting under way as planned at 3pm on Friday, just half an hour before the gates were due to open.
Revellers will now be given access to the site from 10am on Saturday instead.
Just 24 hours previously, those behind the event had told The Courier they were confident it would be ready to open on time.
‘Tough decision’ to delay opening
A post on the Dundee Winterfest Facebook page on Friday afternoon said: “Unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances our team have had to take the tough decision to delay today opening until tomorrow, Saturday November 26.
“This is not a decision that we have come to easily, and for reasons totally out of our control.
“The reason for this is delays with the ice rink.
“The rink equipment was delayed at customs coming in from Belgium and arrived five days later than originally booked, and because we have a real ice rink it’s not quite thick enough yet.”
In a video shared online earlier this week, the ice rink appeared to be in the early stages of being set up.
Speaking to The Courier on Thursday, Montana Thomson from M&N Events said the set-up at the site had been hampered by recent heavy rainfall – describing the weather as “unbelievable”.
However, reassurances were given that the site should be ready on time.
M&N Events has apologised to anyone who had pre-booked tickets for the attractions on Friday night.
The statement added: “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience that might have been caused and will hopefully rectify any issues raised because of this.
“We will be in touch within the hour to anyone who has got pre booked tickets. We look forward to welcoming you all tomorrow when everything is perfect for everyone to enjoy.
“Thanks for understanding and hopefully see you all soon.”
The Courier has produced an interactive Winterfest map to help guide revellers attending this year’s festival, which runs until January 1.
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