Winter is officially here. Mitford Pond is ready for business.

One of the best things about winters in Cochrane is skating on Mitford, and it will be open in the next day or so.

Once the 'thin ice' signs come down, residents are invited to skate to their hearts content, or until the nippy frost drives them home for a hot chocolate.  The pond has been frozen enough to deem it safe for one of Cochrane's favorite winter past time activities.

Gerry Murphy, Town of Cochrane,  Manager Parks and Open Spaces, says they had a piece of equipment on there yesterday and will have one more flood today. They will always err on the side of caution when they open the pond for skating, but does not anticipate any issues because of the freezing cold temperatures we have been experienced.  Murphy says this rink is for everyone.

"We want people to enjoy it and share the ice, it is for all age groups and all types of skaters.  Just look out for one another and make it safe and fun for everyone."

Murphy does remind us to use common sense when it comes to being outside in the cold temperatures and to bundle up.

The 24-hour Facility Status line will always have the latest updates available 403-851-2552.