Manchester’s glitterati were out last night at the official launch of the UK’s biggest indoor Winter Funland.

The event saw football stars from past and present as well as other a wealth of rugby legends from Salford Red Devils and Warrington Wolves.

They joined 2,000 children, nominated by local charities, to attend the VIP evening to enjoy the shows and rides that form part of this year's family event.

Andy Windmill, Winter Funland event director, said: “We’re so excited that Winter Funland is finally open for everyone to come along and enjoy. Christmas is such a magical time of year and it’s amazing to see so much festive spirit!”

Winter Wonderland 2019 has five amazing festive attractions including: a huge real ice rink, a fabulous Christmas circus, an incredible panto and a vast indoor funfair.

Without giving too much away – one of the biggest attractions is the incredible Santa’s Grotto. Children enter and are instantly transported into magical world of secret doors and wonderful surprises!

As well as all these attractions there is plenty of food and drink available, catering for a wide range of requirements including vegan, vegetarian, gluten and lactose free options. Refreshments are also available to get visitors into the festive spirit.

Sessions will be running twice a day between now and January 4, with times varying depending which date you choose. Full details and tickets are available online here www.winterfunland.com

Winter Funland is taking place at EventCity, opposite intu Trafford Centre and there are over 3,000 free car parking spaces. 

All-inclusive admission tickets are £23.50 per person and under 3’s go FREE. Fastpass tickets to visit Father Christmas at Santa’s Ghrotto are also available from the website.