A Christmas funfair and ice-rink has opened in Paisley to kick off the festive season.

Crowds gathered in the town centre last night to mark the start of a month-long programme of fun activities.

It saw the first skaters take to the outdoor ice-rink, with local professional hockey team Glasgow Clan and dancers from the Maryann McCreadie School of Dance being the first to test out the ice.

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The Paisley’s Christmas event is organised by Renfrewshire Council in partnership with Scotland’s Theme Park and runs until Saturday, December 28.

The town’s Christmas lights were turned on as part of the opening night by Provost Lorraine Cameron and Mia from St James' Primary School, who won the chance to switch on the lights through the Provost’s annual Christmas Card Competition.

Paisley is also preparing to host the town’s first Christmas Market on the High Street next Saturday, with the chance to win prizes through their 12 Days of Christmas competition and Cosy Christmas Trail.

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As part of the events Santa will make an appearances at his Grotto on Saturday 7, 11, and 21, December from 11am-3pm.

Johnstone’s Christmas lights switch-on will also take place in Houstoun Square tomorrow from 1pm until 5pm.

Free family activities will then be held on Sunday in Renfrew Town Hall from 12 noon until 4pm.

Tickets can be bought online with discounts available for Renfrewshire residents, students and YoungScot card holders.