Seven-year-old Cassy Chretien (on chair) takes a break from learning to skate at the Outdoor Ice Oval

Prince George, BC – The organizer of the 4th annual PG Skates is crediting the 'wonderful' volunteers at the Outdoor Ice Oval Society for ensuring a spectacular community skate this afternoon.

EnhancePG's Betty Burbee says the overnight snow and warm temperatures meant conditions were less than ideal this morning, but she says the ice oval volunteers saved the day with hours of hard work to get the ice in top form before the 1pm event. (photo at right shows Burbee (l) and Enhance PG member, Sherry Powney)

"We're just so appreciative to the Ice Oval Society," Burbee says, "This rink is operated and maintained solely by volunteers.  Some people think it's a city operation and think why should they pay, but guess what, it's helps these guys keep the oval going."

She says PG Skates started as an event to familiarize city residents with the outdoor skating facilities that are available throughout Prince George, and it's continued from there.

250News caught up with Sean Bernard and his three-year-old son, Eli, who were taking advantage of the free skate.

It was just Eli's fourth time on skates, but he continued making his way around the oval while 250 got his particulars from his dad – telling his parents that he needed 'some alone time'.

Last year, more than 400 city residents made their way down to the oval to lace up their skates.  Despite the sunshine and warm temperatures, Burbee says there weren't quite as many over the course of the two hours today.

She thinks there may have been some confusion with yesterday's community skate that was part of the Kin 1 opening, but adds, " People are busy, this is a town where there's a lot going on."