The Ice Cube in the city's Millennium Square was due to open on 17 January.

But the sudden spell of mild and windy weather means the ice is not thick enough to support skaters.

Patrick Loy, from Leeds City Council's city centre management team, said: "It's not unusual for outdoor ice rinks to have to be closed for a while because of the weather, but it's a shame it has happened before we've even opened.

"We'd like to apologise for the inconvenience this may cause to anyone who had planned to visit the rink on Friday or Saturday."

The rink proved a big hit last year with over 100,000 skaters taking to the ice.

It is hoped the rink will be able to open on 19 January, and stay open until 2 March.