Three teenagers have been arrested and bailed by police in Preston in connection with thousands of pounds worth of damage at the city centre ice rink.

Two boys, aged 15, and a 13-year-old girl were arrested on suspicion of burglary at their homes in Avenham on Tuesday following the incident at about 11.30pm on Sunday when the perimeter fences at the ice rink on Preston's Flag Market were smashed.

Oil was also poured into the anti-freeze system and a hole was dug in the centre of the rink. The trio have been ordered to return to Preston police station, Lawson Street, on Tuesday, December 13.

Inspector Paul Wilson, of Preston CID, said: "Three juveniles were arrested and have all been interviewed.

"What's happened is not nice and there's nothing to be gained by it and I don't understand what it was all about."

Bosses at Preston City Centre Management, the company who organised the Christmas festivities at the city centre location, have estimated costs at £10,000 but were defiant the festive season would not be ruined and they reopened the facility at 3pm on Tuesday.

Anne-Marie Flynn, marketing manager for the company, said "It's mindless vandalism.

"Not only have we had to cancel bookings but it has cost a lot of money to repair."

Security has been stepped up at the ice rink, including extra guard patrols, to prevent any further incidents.

Miss Flynn said: "It's business as usual and we would encourage as many people to come and have a go on the ice."

The rink is open Mondays and Tuesdays, 10am-7pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10am-9pm and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-6pm throughout the Christmas and New Year period.