A POPULAR roller skating rink is finally set to reopen this weekend after its initial reopening was delayed by a Government u-turn.

Iconic Colchester business Rollerworld, in Eastgates, has been poised to reopen at the start of August as part of lockdown easing.

But hours before as venues were putting the final touches together Prime Minister Boris Johnson called a halt on the easing.

Last night Mr Johnson confirmed the reopening of casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and soft play centres could now go ahead.

Rollerworld said it would be ready to throw open its doors despite having only just laid a floor across the rink for a fundraiser next week.

New safety measures have been introduced at the attraction with a revised schedule of skating sessions and extra staff on hand to help.

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A spokesman said: "We heard late last night from the news media that roller rinks in the UK are now allowed to open tomorrow.

"Although a little stressful, with such short notice and having just laid the floor for our fundraiser quiz night we can assure that will be removed today and skating will resume as usual at 12.30 tomorrow.

"Our amazing staff have gotten Rollerworld ready for everyone to return safely.

"This is the best news for us all and very unexpected and we would like to thank everyone involved in the process of getting all the ice rinks and roller rinks open this weekend.

Gazette:

"Happy is an understatement but please make sure you follow all the latest guidelines when returning.

"Please be aware for the time being face masks will be required in Rollerworld unless you are seated on the seats provided, skating on the rink or outside in our skater garden.

"But if standing or moving about inside please wear a mask at all times and follow social distancing.

"If you are medically exempt from wearing one please make staff aware when entering.

"We look forward to seeing everyone's smiling faces on Saturday and beyond."

In May, the same month the attraction marked its 30th anniversary, the owners of Rollerworld Anne and Jason Khan launched a crowdfunding campaign to try and save it from closure.

To date they have raised more than £7,000 and are still hoping for more donations to secure the long-term future of the facility.

Donate to the fundraiser at crowdfunder.co.uk/keep-dxsrollerworld-open.