Ice sculpture trail to mark switch-on of festive lights

The ice sculptures will mark a trail through the city centre and in the afternoon shoppers can watch a piece of ice being sculpted into a spectacular showpiece by Wardley.

The Bradford-born sculptor is well known for his sand sculpture of Charles Darwin in Bradford’s Cenentary Square two years ago.

The sculpture, which drew praise from many visitors, was created to mark the bicentenary of Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the release of On the Origin of Species.

Jamie Wardley first became interested in sand and ice sculptures when he visited Norway as a child. He loved art and became fascinated by an artist who was based in Oslo and fashioned all types of figures from these unusual materials.

The ice sculptures will be located on Centenary Square, Tyrell Square, Bank Street, Darley Street, Kirkgate and John Street.

In addition there will be Christmas characters such as Santas, elves and Christmas crackers which will provide entertainment around the same city centre area.

The Bradford switch-on will begin with a show at 5.30pm and end with a firework finale.