Reindeer and Santa Claus arrive in Cardiff for Christmas lights switch-on

The countdown for Christmas has begun for many shoppers today in Cardiff with the annual light switch on.

The Winter Wonderland is also back along with a brand new 'ice kingdom' filled with ice sculptures - including a model of Shane Williams.

Cairngorm Reindeer will parade through the city centre pulling Santa on his sleigh, leaving Cardiff Central Library at 4.45pm they will head to their pen on St Mary Street where they will remain until 7.30pm.

Entertainment and attractions include appearances by children's favourites Captain Barnacles and Kwazii from the Octonauts at intervals throughout the evening outside St David's Hall.

The evening also marks the start of later night shopping and opening of Cardiff's Winter Wonderland at City Hall.