HEREFORD will host a "Christmas Spectacular" event this December as the city tries to put on "wow factor entertainment".

World-class walkabout performers, live bands and the "Hereford gift card golden ticket treasure hunt" are some of the plans lined up this December, Hereford Business Improvement District has pledged.

Under the district's Hereford City Life brand, chief executive Mike Truelove said he wanted Hereford to be attractive place for shopping for the wider region.

He said after a "difficult" Christmas in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, Hereford BID had worked closely with the city council to put on "wow factor entertainment" around the city.

He said that would include acts such as iGlobot, a giant walking robot that children will love; Nanook, the wondering Polar Bear with his special friend Xania the Ice Fairy; and Mysterian, the famous street magician.

"In combination with a program of live music, free parking on late night Wednesdays and an attractive regional shopping experience, there is every reason to come to Hereford this year," he said.

"It will be tremendous fun that people will not want to miss."

Hereford will once again off late-night shopping on the three Wednesdays before Christmas, including free car parking after 4pm.