The Inverness Ice Centre reopened over the weekend following a £719,000 upgrade.
Inverness-born Olympian and triple world champion curler Ewan MacDonald said previously that the new facility will set athletes on course in their training for the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea.
Upgrades include a new chiller pack, air-cooled condensers and ice control system, resulting in a 25-30% saving, which equates to a five-figure sum annually, as well as a new floor and barriers in the ice hall.
Olympians and World, European and Paralympic medallists, including Mr MacDonald, use the facility alongside curling teams, figure and dance skating groups.
Public skaters, synchro skaters, ice hockey clubs and the Highland Wheelchair Curling Club also use the rink on a regular basis.
Tom Pendreigh, chairman of Inverness Ice Centre, said: “The upgrade is essential for the centre to move forward, developing it into one of the largest wet weather facilities in the north and it is central to the Inverness Ice Centre’s longevity.”
Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson said: “The Inverness Ice Centre is hugely strategically important for the Highlands and Scotland.
“It’s ours and the nearest similar facility would be three hours travel from here.
“Ice rinks aren’t cheap and I believe the funding which includes a lot of money raised by the centre itself, is money well spent.
“My hope is with the leisure centre just around the corner and the playing fields atBught Park that we can have a sports hub for the future in this area.”
Various fun-filled, ice-themed activities took place over the weekend to mark the reopening, which officially took place on Friday night in front of guests including members of Highland Council and sportscotland.
On Saturday, there was a rare chance for people to come and try out curling, with coaches from the Highland Curling Development Group providing tuition.
Ewan MacDonald was also on hand throughout the day to offer some winning tips and advice, along with his impressive medal haul.
