Watch: I went to the German market countdown as the famous Christmas market flung open its doors

Birmingham New Street has transformed into a twinkling Christmas haven after the Frankfurt market flung open its shutters on Friday.

As I walked up from Grand Central to the council house, I was surprised at how quiet it was. Usually during this time it is so busy that you can't even see the pavement.

I carried on up towards the council building and the 'floozy' where the main stage is. I soon realised why New Street looked so quiet - everyone was gathered around the main centrepiece, the huge, lush Christmas tree. 

Hundreds of Christmas lovers were gathered around the main stage to list

The countdown began, and everyone turned their heads towards the Christmas tree which was soon to be aglow. 

The lights switched on and everyone came together to welcome in the Christmas season, albeit a little early in my opinion. Nonetheless, it was a good old merry time. 

The smell of bratwurst and cheesy garlic bread filled the air, and everyone had a cool, frothy stein in hand.

Sweets, doughnuts and chocolate strawberries were piled up in glass cases, and the Bailey's hot chocolate was flowing. What a night. 

The excitement will continue all the way up until Christmas Eve, with live musicians playing every night.

If you're stuck on what to buy a loved one for Christmas, you might just find the perfect thing here. There are gifts a-plenty, from salt rock lamps to sculptures - even big heart-shaped cookies. 

I spoke to a few of the visitors and asked them what they loved the most about the Christmas market. 

Rob, a Frankfurt market superfan, couldn't contain his excitement.

"I've been looking forward to the cheesy garlic bread all year," he said, wheat beer in hand, "cheers lads."

More information on Birmingham's famous German Market can be found on their website here https://www.thebfcm.co.uk/.