CHESTER Zoo’s much-loved Christmas spectacle returned this weekend, and here’s a sneak peek for those planning to visit this festive season.

This year’s trail is now longer than ever before as visitors journey through a number of vibrant lands where they encounter an exciting line-up of costumed characters, new animal puppets including meerkats, peacocks, red pandas and snow leopards as well as glowing cathedral tunnels of light and dramatic fire gardens.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without greeting the big man himself, which is why you’ll find Father Christmas working away in his workshop with his elves as they make all of the presents for children around the world.

There’s also a whole new festive menu on offer at the food and drink markets stationed in various locations along the route.

Ticket sales will help to support the conservation zoo in its efforts to protect some of the planet’s most threatened species.

The magical event will run on selected evenings throughout November and December and extra nights have now been added the week after Christmas and up until New Year’s Day.

For more and to book visit: www.chesterzoo.org/lanterns-and-light