Dublin and Cork to switch on Christmas lights today

The countdown to Christmas is on, as both Dublin and Cork prepare to turn on their lights this evening.

In Dublin, the Original Rudeboys will be guests of honour to turn on the Grafton Street Christmas lights at 5pm.

They'll be joined by Love/Hate star Laurence Kinlan who plays Elmo in the hit show.

While in Cork, the captains of the All Ireland-winning Cork Ladies Football and Cork camogie teams will get festivities underway on Patrick Street at around 6pm.