The Challenge

All the CO2 released from the rink, which is being sponsored by Taunton Deane Borough Council at a cost of £10,000, will be offset.

The green initiative will see around £400 being invested in tree planting projects.

A council spokesperson said the attraction was important in "boosting Taunton as a prime Christmas shopping destination, particularly as a new retail development has opened in Exeter".

The 20m sq rink will be situated on part of Coal Orchard car park, close to St James Street swimming pool.

Council leader Ross Henley said he was pleased that the ice-rink was returning.

"The fact that the rink will be carbon offset is excellent, and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to sustainability," he said.

In 2006, the ice rink was sited on the car park at the Brewhouse Theatre which is unavailable this year.

The rink will open from 6 December until 6 January.