Christmas attractions fully reopen after flooding

Bournemouth's Christmas attractions include a train and illuminated mini golf

A Christmas attraction that was hit by flooding is now fully reopen, organisers have said.

Heavy rain caused flooding in Bournemouth's Lower Gardens at the weekend, forcing the closure of a Christmas train, festive golf and a Santa's workshop, and leaving some illuminations in darkness.

Events staff worked with the council and contractors, after the water subsided on Sunday, to repair the affected installations.

Organiser Bournemouth Christmas Events said the remaining illuminations were switched back on on Monday.

Lower Gardens and some of the attractions were partly submerged

The flooding happened on Saturday when Bourne Stream, which runs through the gardens, overflowed following heavy rain.

The ice rink and Christmas market were unaffected.

The flooding follows a week of uncertainty after council planners recommended the refusal of planning permission for the ice rink, however, on Thursday, councillors approved the application with conditions.

Simon Smith, of Bournemouth Christmas Events, said: "Everything is back open in the gardens.

"It's been a tough start with the weather and stress of the planning hearing but [we're] getting lots of positive feedback for the whole gardens.

"People especially love the new ice rink layout with the huge space."

Mr Smith praised the response of the council's park's department, electricians and events staff for getting the event back on track.