Record numbers of people visited Edinburgh's Christmas over the festive period, with organisers hailing the event a huge success.

The team behind the attractions - which include the ice rink, German market and fairground rides - said the total visitor footfall amounted to 3.8 million, compared with 3.5 million the previous year.

The Christmas celebrations are estimated to have generated more than £119m for the city's economy.

Organisers Underbelly said there were 917,000 unique visitors to the attractions between opening in November and concluding at the weekend.

Around 60% of the visitors travelled to the event from outside Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Underbelly said people from 64 countries visited the Street of Light and other festive attractions.

More than 280,000 people went to the light show, which was held on George Street for the first time after its inaugural year on the Royal Mile.

Charlie Wood, director of Edinburgh's Christmas, said: "It's been a real privilege for Underbelly to produce Edinburgh's Christmas on behalf of the council for the past four years and particularly to see the substantial year on year growth and the positive impact on the residents and businesses of Edinburgh.

"We've seen record numbers of people enjoying their visits to Edinburgh's Christmas this year and we're delighted to have welcomed so many visitors from both Edinburgh and 64 countries around the world.

"We would like to thank those who partnered us and supported the event including Standard Life, Aggreko, LIDL and Western Toyota.

"Edinburgh in winter is truly world class and once again it's proved it's the place to be."

More than 130,000 tickets were taken up by residents of the EH postcode area who were given a 20% discount on shows, rides and attractions.

Nearly 9000 Edinburgh children skated for free at the St Andrew Square ice rink after sponsors Standard Life pledged to gift tickets to pupils.