CHRISTMAS officially arrived at Hereford's Old Market this weekend.

Shoppers headed to the city's new retail development on Saturday to join the celebrations along with Santa, his elves and Ice Age characters Sid and Diego.

Activities on offer throughout the day included live music from special guests including the Scarlett Starlets, Monnow Jazz Quintet and Harriet Williams, culminating at 5.30pm when the Christmas lights were switched on for the first time.

Other Christmas activities taking place in December include the Old Market Kissing Booth and an Elves Workshop which runs every Friday to Monday from December 5 until December 22.

Children who visit the free workshop can take part in a range of Christmas-themed activities including gingerbread decorating and crafting Christmas tree decorations.

Shoppers can also take advantage of free parking at Old Market after 4pm and enjoy an extra hour of late night shopping until 9pm every Wednesday evening until December 17.