NEWPORT'S festive celebrations got off to a rousing start this weekend.

The day-long event in the city centre saw acts including chart-topping boy band Union J and up-and-comers Four of Diamonds take to the stage to greet throngs of adoring fans before the switch was thrown to light up the city's Christmas lights.

Saturday also marked the first anniversary of the opening of Friars Walk with a whole host of fun activities held across the city centre, including fairground rides and colourful characters roaming the streets.

Bjorn the animatronic polar bear proved a particular hit, with his lifelike movement and friendly manner enchanting youngsters.

The stage at the junction of Charles Street and Commercial Street saw acts both from the city and further afield entertain crowds, with X Factor stars Four of Diamonds proving particularly popular.

Newport's own Tobias Robertson, of The Voice fame, also took to the stage along with Heart FM presenters Jagger and Woody and others, but it was boyband Union J who really drew in the crowds, receiving a rapturous reception.

Speaking before the performance band member Josh Cuthbert said events such as this were a highlight of the band's calender.

"It's something we really look forward to," he said. "I remember seeing people do this in my home town, so it's an honour to be on the other side of that.

"Everyone's there to have a good time and it's just a good way to get into the Christmas spirit."

Casey Johnson, who joined the band earlier this year, said he was pleased to be on stage performing after a long stint in the studio.

"We're working on our third album and we've been in the studio solid, so it's great to get out and see people," he said.

As the sun went down the band returned to the stage along with mayor and mayoress David and Carole Atwell, Newport City Council leader Cllr Debbie Wilcox and Newport Gwent Dragons Lewis Evans and Adam Hughes, as well as Father Christmas himself, to throw the switch and light up the city centre, followed by a spectacular fireworks display to launch the festive season in style.

Speaking afterwards Adrian Evans of Newport Now, which put together the event, said he was delighted with how well it had gone.

"It's been absolutely fantastic," he said. "Newport has done itself proud.

"It's been a good day for all the businesses too. Hopefully it's the start of many more events like this."