Footage shows Brighton getting in the festive spirit with the Christmas lights and ice rink proving very popular.

The ice rink, which was erected in October, can be seen lit with blue and purple lights with the Royal Pavilion in the background.

Footage from the rink also shows ice skaters enjoying themselves as festive celebrations kick off in the city with the opening of the Brighton Christmas Festival.

Brighton has proved a popular destination for shoppers over the weekend as people filled the pavements doing their Christmas shopping.

The Christmas lights have also been shining heading into the evening after they were switched on earlier this week.

The Argus: Brighton pavilion ice rink with skaters onBrighton pavilion ice rink with skaters on (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

The Ice rink has made a welcome return to the city after being a staple of the festive period in recent years.

Despite the opening of the rink being marred by rainy weather, skaters are now out in full force once the weather has blown over.

Shortly before its grand opening, the rink played host to a number of NHS workers to thank them for all their hard work over the past year.

Brighton ice rink is now open throughout the festive period and closes on January 8.