Businesses in a busy High Road have donated more than £3,000 to fund an ice rink for this year’s Christmas light switch-on.

The Loughton Town Partnership, Loughton 1st, donated thousands for the towns Light Up Loughton event which will take place tomorrow.

The rink, which will be set up on the day at Loughton Cricket Club and will offer 20 minute time slots between 4pm and 9pm, was made possible after the towns businesses pulled together.

Karen Montagnino of Mode Beauty in Old Station Road, who contributed to the funds, said: “I am really looking forward to seeing the local area come alive.

“I hope  that all of the local people come along and enjoy the night.”

This year's ceremony to turn on the new lights, which will consist of 31 Christmas trees attached to street lights, will take place at St Mary's Church in High Road Loughton.

A carol concert performed by local primary schools will start at 4pm before former The Only Way is Essex star, Billi Mucklow flicks the switch.

The ice rink will be placed in the heart of the town alongside a variety of Christmas Market Stalls, live performances, a winter forest and free visits to Santa’s Grotto to receive a gift.

Tickets for the rink cost £5 and can be purchased from High Street shops, Bababoom and Chi Chi Boutique.