A magical highlight of Bristol's Christmas calendar has been cancelled due to coronavirus.
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway has confirmed that the annual Winter Wonderland event will not be going ahead this year, due to concerns about the potential spread of the virus.
Families and shoppers can usually look forward to Santa’s Enchanted Ice Castle, a huge ice rink and stalls selling steaming mulled wine and comfort food.
However, in a statement shared with Bristol Live this afternoon (Wednesday), a spokesperson confirmed that it would not be going ahead this November.
It read: "Winter Wonderland at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway has always been about bringing friends and family together to celebrate Christmas and enjoy a magical experience.
"We have been exploring our options in the hope of being able to move the event forward in line with the guidance provided by the government and Public Health England.
"However, in light of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, we are unable to find a way to facilitate the events under the current circumstances."
The spokesperson acknowledged that this will be a "disappointment to many", adding: "We are committed to delivering an equally magical festive experience inside the centre instead.
"The centre will be placing community at the heart of its plans by celebrating all the achievements of our local heroes.
"We look forward to welcoming our visitors back to celebrate with us and to say thank you."
No future details have been provided at this point.
Last year the organisers promised the event would be bigger than ever, and it boasted the UK's second largest outdoor ice rink, measuring 1,500 sq metres.
There was also an 'ice cycling' track on special IceByk, a Tipi bar and a Santa's grotto.
