Wokingham’s Christmas Market will not open for another two weeks, the council announced on Tuesday.

The market in Cantley Park and accompanying ice rink were supposed to let in festive shoppers today (Wednesday), but Wokingham Borough Council made a last minute change due to ‘teething problems’ with the rink.

The council have provided refunds to sellers who had already paid for a stall and will offer huts in the market free of charge to local traders.

Read more: Cantley Park Christmas market stalls revealed

Councillor for environment and leisure Parry Batth said: “We planned this event to bring some extra Christmas cheer to the people of the borough – and some things have not gone as well as expected.

“We are sorry for that and want to make sure that, when we do open the market, it is a great attraction for all.

Read more: Work begins decorating Wokingham's Christmas tree

“We have also addressed the concerns raised by visitors to the rink, in particular, the treatment to the surface of the rink has been improved to make it better to skate on.

“As a first of its kind Christmas event for us, with a synthetic skate rink and 15 market huts, we believe this will create a festive feel after the tough year we have all had.”

In response to feedback from the public the council are sharpening the blades on skates and treating to the surface of the synthetic ice, deploying more experienced staff to the rink and providing temporary toilets for visitors.

The Christmas Market is free to attend and will take place in the event field at Cantley Park between 8 and 23 December.

The opening times are Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 8pm, and Sunday 12pm to 6pm.