Game of Thrones team to create Lambton Worm ice sculpture for Durham festival

Ice sculptors from Game of Thrones will bring a flaming spectacle to Durham City
Last year's Fire and Ice festival in DurhamLast year's Fire and Ice festival in Durham
Last year's Fire and Ice festival in Durham

A fire and ice festival will see the city’s streets taken over by an ice sculpture trail, carved by Glacial Arts who are behind some of the ice work on the hit TV show, lit by flaming beacons.

Visitors to Fire & Ice InDurham, which takes place on February 24 and 25, will be able to watch live ice carving demonstrations, and also have a chance to turn their hand to the craft themselves, before the festivities conclude each evening with a grand finale show in the Market Place.

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This year’s theme is famous myths and legends, with visitors able to witness hand-carved ice sculptures depicting some of the region’s most loved stories, including the Lambton Worm.

In addition, people will be able to enjoy carvings of other mythical creatures such as mermaids, dragons and trolls.

Adam Deathe, business engagement manager at Durham BID – the organisers of the event – said: “We’re very excited to be able to bring back Fire & Ice InDurham to the city. It’s been 12 months in the planning but the time it’s taken is well worth it, given the enjoyment it brings to our visitors and the boost it gives to the local economy.

“Last year the event grew in popularity over the course of the weekend as word spread about the festival, with people travelling to the city from as far as York. Not only does the event bring people into the city, it helps to support our businesses in the city centre too.”

Last year's festivalLast year's festival
Last year's festival
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Highlights will also include a series of interactive ice sculptures where people will be encouraged to sit on a grand throne or stand in front of a pair of Griffin wings for selfies.

On February 24 and 25 between 1pm and 5pm in the Market Place, visitors will be able to turn their hand to ice carving and give it a go for themselves on giant ice blocks weighing one tonne each.

And on February 25, between 1pm and 5pm, the Glacial Arts team will perform a live demonstration of how they make their sculptures.

Each evening, the festivities will draw to a close with a grand finale show outside of St Nicholas’ Church, with a light show and music.

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A child-friendly version will be performed each evening in the Market Place at 5.15pm lasting approximately 10 minutes. Then, a second show that is more suitable to adults and older children - as some effects used may be frightening to younger ones - will be performed in the same place at 6pm, lasting approximately 15 minutes.