Cardiff gives heroes' welcome to Wales Euro 2016 stars

Wales' Euro 2016 heroes have enjoyed a rapturous reception during a homecoming in Cardiff.

Chris Coleman's squad were handed the red carpet treatment after touching down at the city's airport just before 2.45pm with the plane given a special water cannon salute before the side were welcomed by First Minister Carwyn Jones.

And in arrivals - where scores of young fans had gathered - there was near mass hysteria amid loud chants of "Wales! Wales!".

The Welsh capital came to a standstill with thousands of fans lining the streets of Cardiff to catch a glimpse of the Euro semi-finalists.

An open top bus is taking Gareth Bale and the team to the Cardiff City Stadium where 33,000 supporters gathered for a special celebration event, which will also featured a performance from rockers Manic Street Preachers.

Watch our Correspondent Carl Edwards review an historic day

Several local schools had given youngsters the afternoon off classes so they could catch the homecoming parade.

Football Association of Wales bosses said the support the national side received in France and back on home soil has been nothing short of remarkable.

Midfielder Joe Ledley missed the homecoming celebrations as he is in Ibiza to get married.

It had been thought the 29-year-old would postpone his wedding following Wales' run to the semi-finals.

But the midfielder said he is still heading to the Mediterranean to tie the knot with partner Ruby May on Saturday.

"The boys are going back to Wales to see the fans, but I've got a wedding to attend," Ledley said.