SKATERS of all ages are invited to strap on their boots as Sunderland prepares to welcome its first ever roller rink.
As part of its Summer in the City programme of activities and entertainment, Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council has announced the city’s Keel Square will play host to the rink – possibly the first in the region – from 22 July to 4 September.
And not only will it be open whatever the weather, thanks to a giant marquee, but a DJ booth will spin tracks from across the decades for beginners and experts alike.
Although final programme plans are still to be finalised the BID is looking at offering a range of public sessions themed to the 80s, 90s and beyond, along with allocated slots for group and private bookings.
The roller rink is just one of a host of attractions lined up in the city this summer with entertainment starting over the Jubilee weekend – from 2 to 6 June – and lasting throughout the school holidays.
Among the other highlights are concerts by Ed Sheeran on 3 and 4 June and Elton John on 19 June at the Stadium of Light and the city-wide Soul Food and Music Festival from 10-12 June.
Incorporating the Souled Out Festival Sunderland, which brings three nights of live music to the former Vaux site, there will be street food stalls and activities for all ages.
And from 25 July to 4 September Sunderland BID has lined up a packed programme of Summer in the City events and activities including appearances by magical characters, free workshops, kids’ clubs and an AR trail.
Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, said she was “delighted to be able to bring the first roller rink to the city,” and hopes as many people as possible will come along and give it a try.
“It’ll be housed in a fantastic giant marquee and there will be a real party vibe,” she said. “So, I’d urge everyone – whether they’ve roller skated before or not, to come along and have a go.”
Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of City Development at Sunderland City Council also urged people of all ages to go along and take part.
“This is a great family friendly activity that everyone can take part in,” said Peter.
“It’s part of a fantastic programme of summer events across Sunderland which we believe really has something for everyone.”
The roller rink will be open from 11am to 8pm and tickets cost £10 for adults, £8 for five to 17-year-olds, £4 for those aged four and under and £28 for a family ticket and prices include the hire of roller boots, kneepads and helmets.
To enquire about group bookings and advertising packages contact info@sunderlandbid.co.uk. Further information can be found at