A MAJOR family attraction in Trafford was forced to stay shut at the weekend after an announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Speaking at a briefing at Downing Street on Friday, the Prime Minister said put back plans for casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and close contact services re-opening from Saturday as well as indoor performances while pilots of larger crowds in sports venues would not take place.

Bosses at Planet Ice in Altrincham were rocked by the news that they would not open be able to open on Saturday as planned.

A spokesman said: "We understand this will be met with disappointment and frustration and Planet Ice share your emotions at this time.

"All of our staff have worked so hard over the last few days to get the buildings ready for the opening on August 1 and we know we speak for everyone in our industry when we say how upset we are by this decision.

"The Prime Minister has indicated that we could provisionally re-open in two weeks’ time on August 15 and Planet Ice will work towards that date.

"We will regularly post information and updates on our website and social media channels to keep everyone informed. The Government announcement has come as a surprise to all of us.

"We understand that people have purchased ice skating and we will ensure we deal with all customer concerns as quickly as possible. Planet Ice thanks you for all your patience so far and we will work towards the new date where we can re-open."

Meanwhile, Morwenna Angove, Chill Factore chief executive, said: “We’ve been planning to reopen on Monday August 17 and we are still on track to be able to do this in a Covid-19 secure way.

"The safety of our team members and guests is our uppermost priority and we’re following all government advice very carefully.

"While we’ve been closed, we’ve been very busy planning for re-opening and have plenty of fresh snow and lots of measures in place to safely look after our team and guests.

“I know everyone is going to be missing the slopes as the season was cut short this year.

"Mental wellbeing is hugely important during difficult times and we believe we have a role to play.

"Alongside gyms and many other fitness activities, we want to provide a safe space for guests to learn a new skill, enjoy snow play or take part in their favourite sport and look forward to welcoming guests to the slopes from the 17th.”