Thousands enjoy town's first fire and ice event...

[dutchman]

Rugby First said the event was a "great success"



Around 10,000 people turned up to a fire and ice event in Rugby, as organisers opted to add something different to the traditional Christmas light switch-on.

Hand-carved ice sculptures were placed around the town centre on Sunday, alongside fire-breathing acts and live music.

The free event also featured ice-carving shows, Father Christmas and festive craft activities.

Linda Lowne, business director at Rugby First, said the town's first fire and ice event was a "great success", with hopes to run another next Christmas.

Visitors young and old enjoyed Christmas carols, mulled wine and Santa's grotto.

Ms Lowne said the event came after "listening to what businesses and visitors wanted".

"They wanted to see something different, an event that was split all the way through the town," she said.

"I think it's been a great success. Everyone that I talked to loved it."

She said the event benefitted local businesses, with "constant" footfall in the town centre throughout the day.

"People stayed, enjoyed themselves and visited our local businesses - which is what this is all about.

"We want to hear what people have thought of it. Tell me what you think. We want to make things bigger and better for next time."