Planning permission has been granted for a further development of the tourism offerings at Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in Tramore.

The annual Christmas lights spectacular launched last Friday in the gardens.

This year follows a frozen icy theme, with all lights in the display curated by staff and volunteers in the gardens.

The event was launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway.

Also singing at the event in Japanese was Ardscoil na Mara student, Amber Moran, who is the ambassador to the gardens, offering guided tours to Transition Year students each week.

WLR's Dymphna Nugent spoke to organiser Janet Carey in the gardens about this year's event, as well as plans for 2024 following a successful planning permission application.