Gingerbread characters can be seen in shopfronts across St Albans city centre, as a new trail is launched in time for Christmas.

Running from last Friday (November 17) until December 23, the St Albans Gingerbread Christmas Trail gives participants the chance to win one of three £50 St Albans Gift Cards.

Ten characters can be found in the city's shops, which are included in trail maps available to collect from the St Albans Museum + Gallery on St Peter's Street.

Herts Advertiser: Gingerbread characters have been placed in shop fronts across the city centre.Gingerbread characters have been placed in shop fronts across the city centre. (Image: St Albans BID)

Once all 10 have been found, completed trail sheets can be posted in Santa's post box, also at the Museum + Gallery, to be entered into the draw.

Participating shops and businesses include:

  • Rug Maker - 42 Verulam Road, AL3 4DQ
  • Sofas & Stuff  - 27-29 High Street, AL3 4EH
  • Books on the Hill - 1 Holywell Hill, AL1 1ER
  • Barclays - 16-18 St Peter’s Street, AL1 3NA
  • Bouyage Maltings Beauty - 50 The Maltings, AL1 3HL
  • Debenhams Ottaway - 107 St Peter's Street, AL1 3EW
  • Ollie Quinn - 11 Market Place, AL3 5DR
  • Air Aesthetics - 19, Christopher's Place, Upper Dagnall St, AL3 5DQ
  • Marks & Tilt - 18 London Road, AL1 1NG
  • On Brand - Victoria Street, AL1 3JB
  • St Albans Library - The Maltings, AL1 3JQ
  • The Alban Arena - Civic Close, AL1 3LD
  • St Albans Museum + Gallery - St Peter’s Street, AL1 3DH

Vivien Cannon, manager at St Albans BID, said: "We are delighted to be able to bring something new to St Albans this Christmas with the Gingerbread Christmas Trail and additional light installations.

Herts Advertiser: 10 gingerbread characters have been created.10 gingerbread characters have been created. (Image: St Albans BID)

"Our popular Christmas trails showcase our wonderful city centre shops and businesses and encourage people to explore all that is on offer here during the festive season.

"With plenty of places to shop for gifts and dine, alongside a great programme of events - St Albans offers the perfect day out this Christmas."

Herts Advertiser: Magical photo spots have also been created.Magical photo spots have also been created. (Image: KL Photography)

Along with the Gingerbread Christmas Trail, a variety of street performances, and "magical photo spots" have been arranged throughout the festive period.

Further information can be found at: www.enjoystalbans.com/christmas