SKATE AND SNOW A WINNING FORMULA AT LIFE

An open air ice rink and a 4D Sleigh Ride proved a winning formula for the Centre for Life which has welcomed record visitor numbers since opening in mid-November. Life has been home to Newcastle’s open-air ice rink for the last 12 years and it has become a popular attraction in the city’s winter programme, attracting some 80,000 visitors annually.  This year, Life opened the region’s only 4D Motion Ride* which has been a big hit with visitors. Linda Conlon, Chief Executive at Life said: “Our ice-rink is always popular but this year, we’ve seen more visitors combine skating with a visit to the science centre which is due partly to the new 4D Motion Ride.  However, its great value for money, as visitors can also enjoy live science demonstrations, a planetarium show and dozens of hands on interactive exhibits.  We’re delighted that the 4D Motion Ride, with its festive film, Sleigh Ride, hit the right note and attracted nearly 20% more visitors than this time last year.  With six weeks of ice skating left, we’re hoping this will be our best winter period to date.” The skate and 4D Motion Ride combination was also a hit with festive partygoers.  Christmas party bookings were up 60% on last year.  “We’ve had an exceptionally good winter period with Christmas partygoers all keen to try out the 4D Motion Ride as a fun ice-breaker before their meal.  This is really good news for the science centre in the current economic climate as profits from commercial activities are used to support our charitable mission of engaging people in science.” Life’s 4D Motion Ride is included in the Centre’s admission price.  Visitors can also explore its exhibitions, live science shows and planetarium, which is the largest in the North.  Currently, skaters can benefit from 2 for 1 on entry prices – valid until 15 February. For more information, visit www.life.org.uk *Riders on the 4D Motion Ride must be a minimum of 4ft/1.2m