Even a Scrooge like me managed to have a good time on new Liverpool ice rink

I'm not bothered about Christmas. There, I've said it.

Alright, the few days leading up to it are pleasant, and Boxing Day isn't too shabby, but all I truly desire for Christmas is for it - and winter - to end as swiftly as possible. Christmas in Australia sounds delightful - beach barbecues and kangaroos - but who fancies being in England, freezing their backside off in the wind and rain?

This year, I've decided to give this Christmas spirit thing a whirl and headed BOXPARK's new ice rink, IceBox. Having steered clear of ice rinks my whole life, I probably should have anticipated I'd be dreadful, but a blend of ignorance and arrogance had me picturing myself performing back flips on the ice within five minutes.

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As we sipped mulled wine and laced up our skates, a staff member instructed us on how to fall, should we tumble; not on flat hands but rather on clenched fists so that the ice doesn't slice your hand. He also introduced us to the plastic penguins which were essentially zimmer frames for ice skaters, shaped and painted like a penguin - not that I'd be needing them.

Finally, it was our turn to hit the ice and, as soon as my skates made contact, my confidence evaporated. Clearly not the skating pro I'd imagined myself to be, my girlfriend suggested I lean on her for support.

"In front of all these people? Not a chance," I retorted, my ego bruised, as I reached for a penguin aid. The next 20 minutes saw me clinging onto the Pingu.

The staff offered words of encouragement while my girlfriend urged me to ditch the penguin, but the only thing more embarrassing than being seen with the penguin would be taking a tumble in front of a crowd.

Despite my clear lack of prowess, I must admit that I became quite adept with Pingu's assistance and did manage to have a good chuckle (aided by the mulled wine and boozy hot chocolate).

"This Christmas thing isn't too bad, is it actually?," I thought, as I left the rink. Who knows, you might spot me at the Christmas Market next, or - heaven help us - a pantomime this season.

IceBox is situated directly opposite BOXPARK Liverpool for six weeks. Visitors can lace up their skates from Friday, November 22 and enjoy the ice until Sunday, January 5.