Limerick is to have the tallest Christmas Tree in Ireland standing at 100 feet, and which can be seen floating on the river Shannon.

The tree is 30 feet taller than last year's tree and has been made from salvaged steel from building projects in the city, including Thomond Park and the Shannon Tunnel.

It was designed by White Young Greene Consulting Engineers.

Boxing star Andy Lee, will switch on the lights with Mayor Kevin Kiely, marking the beginning of Winterfest, on November 20.

There was a certain festive feeling in the air as the Winterfest weekend was launched this week, which aims to draw crowds into the city and boost trade from November 20 to 22.

The festival will promote the retail industry in the city, and there will be numerous special offers and bargains to be had in participating stores.

A Winterfest market will take place on Thomas Street, and the city's weekly markets will take place as usual.

The Saturday market will take place on Ellen Street and the Sunday Riverside market in Bedford Row will take place for Winterfest weekend and every weekend leading up to Christmas. Laura Ryan of Limerick Co-ordination office, explained that free parking will be provided in the city on Saturday November 21, with special offers available in multi-storey carparks.

General manager of Brown Thomas, said: "Its important that we are all on the same track, because we have unique aspects to offer. People need to come in and feel the atmosphere in the city and see the lights, etc. Every store has put in a great effort in the last year with new windows, services and special offers.

The pedestrianisation is great as it adds to the safety aspect".