BLACKBURN Arena will extend its opening hours next month to meet an increase in demand thanks to the television show Dancing on Ice.

Last year the Arena in Waterside saw the popularity of skating rocket on the back of ITV programme.

And with the new series just getting under way, bosses have confirmed the arena had stocked up on extra pairs of skates and will increase its opening hours during the February school half-term.

Managing director Des Finlay said: "No-one anticipated quite how big the programme would be last year and the level of interest in ice skating it would generate.

"We were having to turn away hundreds of people at its peak during the February half-term week, with queues stretching for as far as you could see out the door.

"The show is expected to be even bigger and better this year, so plans are in place to cope with the rush.

"We would advise everyone simply to arrive in plenty of time and be patient."