BURNHAM-on-Sea's Christmas ice skating rink will not be returning to the town this year, Burnham Events Social Team (BEST) have revealed.

Organisers from the community group set up the synthetic rink in the town’s Lynton Road car park in 2015 and it has been a popular fixture in the town for the past three years.

But this year it will not be returning to the town as BEST say volunteers in the community group have struggled with illness and there have not been enough helpers to organise the event.

Kathy Ford from Burnham Events and Social Team, said: "This year the rink won’t be returning due to a combination of illness, a low number of helpers and the impact of the ice rink at Weston.

"It is regrettable because we know that many families look forward to visiting the rink over the holiday season. This year, it is just not possible.

"I am saddened that it won’t be possible this year but people’s family issues must always come first."

Burnham and Highbridge Town Council gave BEST initial start-up funding for the project in 2015 and since then the team has gained a voluntary base who fundraise all year to fund the ice rink without the council’s funding.

Ms Ford said the group will be 'regrouping' next year and are looking to turn the ice skating rink into a roller rink which can be used all year round.

A spokesman for Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, said: "The town council understands that the group has alternative plans for community events."