A YORK Christmas attraction has seen four couples get engaged in its opening month.

Christmas At York Museum Gardens sees thousands of lights and festive installations decorate the gardens, and on Wednesday evening, Stephen Lough proposed to Vanessa McGee after working with staff at the attraction.

Vanessa said yes, and she and Stephen were treated to Prosecco and toasted marshmallows by the team.

Stephen said: "I’d like to say thanks to Marc, Sophie and the rest of the team at Christmas at York Museum Gardens for making our day truly special.

"They went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. I couldn’t imagine a better place to propose to someone who loves Christmas as much as Vanessa and all their efforts made it even more magical. I honestly can’t thank them enough."

The other three couples have chosen not to reveal their identities, but the attraction has also been the backdrop to the BBC Breakfast weather reports from Matt Taylor, as well as proving popular with members of the public.

A comment on Ryedale Mumbler said the event was "a big hit with the little ones who loved being out in the dark whilst feeling very safe and mesmerised by the lights. It certainly made us feel festive".

Britain Magazine recommended the event as as one of ‘The Best British Christmas events 2017’, for its illuminated trail, projections, and musical performances.

Maria Farrugia is general manager of Lunchbox Events, which runs the event as well as Thor's tipi in York and Leeds, and said the team had "lots of exciting new ideas for next year too".

She said: "We are delighted to be able to show York’s stunning Museum Gardens in a whole new light and have been thrilled by the response to our first season.

"Every weekend has been close to sold out. We are hoping that by the time we close on New Year’s Day more than 60,000 people will have enjoyed a novel festive experience."

The attraction, sponsored by TalkTalk, has already sold more than 20,000 tickets and is open every day until January 1, except Christmas Day. To find out more or book, go to christmasatyorkmuseumgardens.co.uk