THE site of the old Crystal Palace which burnt down 69 years ago is to be transformed into an ice rink this winter.

The London Development Agency (LDA) and Greenwich Leisure Limited have teamed up to organise the attraction, which runs from December 10 to January 8.

Schoolchildren in the area will get free tickets.

Karen Byrne, who attends Royston Primary School, High Street, Penge, said: "The children at the school use the park a lot so it will be lovely for them to go skating there."

Executive councillor for community safety and leisure Neil Reddin said: "It's a fantastic idea. It will widen the range of activities available over winter and bring people to the Crystal Palace area as well as the park."

Tickets are £7 for adults, £5 for children and £20 for families, including skate hire.

Further information is available on 020 7954 4500.