STALLHOLDERS and on-site staff at Taunton’s Winter Wonderland admit it has been “dreadfully quiet” so far but hope numbers will pick up when the Christmas holidays start.

Set up by Taunton Town Centre Company, the Castle Green ‘Wonderland’ features an ice rink, Ferris wheel and German-style gift and treat stands.

However since opening on November 21, weekday visitors have been disappointingly sparse, say the on-site team.

Site manager Stephen Pike said: “You’ve got to take the rough with the smooth.

“But it’s the same with the shops – you can’t tip people out and get them spending money they haven’t got.”

Martyn Edworthy, who mans the temporary ice rink, said: “During the week it’s quite slow, which is a shame because obviously we are open daily.

"Weekends are busier for us. I like them because a lot more people turn up.

“I think it’s because not a lot of people tend to take notice of it, looking through the archway.

"If you’re not actually physically walking through here you’re now going to know it’s here.”

He added: “I don’t think a lot of OAPS will want to get on the ice rink.”

Stallholder April Thornton said it had been “dreadfully quiet”.

“People haven’t come and supported it to be honest… I spend an hour and 20 minutes on the motorway to get here.

"I honestly thought it was going to be much more festive. But it’s really a sign of the times.”

Last week town centre manager Graham Love told the County Gazette: “We are hoping that during the school holidays people will get along and visit the Winter Wonderland as part of their visit to the town.

"It’s open seven days a week; it’s quiet during weekdays but busy at weekends.”