LAST-minute preparations are under way to make sure Glasgow sees out 2012 in style.

The city is today gearing up for a Hogmanay party frenzy in the heart of the city.

George Square will host 12-hours of fun for all the family, kicking off at noon today.

The free party, Hogman- ayday, will feature a ceilidh and Scottish music to get people into the party spirit before The Bells.

Drum and pipe band Drums and Roses kickstart the entertainment, followed by ceilidh outfit Kilter.

Also entertaining the crowds will be Williamwood Pipe Band and the Maryann McCreadie School of Highland Dancing.

Partygoers can enjoy traditional Scottish food and a tipple or two, while there will be plenty to keep kids amused.

They can enjoy Scottish storytelling sessions, with actors dressed in clan costumes, face-painting and Scottish-themed arts and crafts. And the Glasgow on Ice rink will open all day ensuring something for all ages.

Hogmanayday is part of the Glasgow Loves Hogmanay celebrations, which run through to January 6.

Meanwhile, savvy shoppers have been braving the post-Christmas crowds as sales grips Scotland's shopping capital.

Glasgow retailers have reported a positive pre-Christmas period, which saw record sales figures for many outlets on the Style Mile.

And retailers are also indicating strong post-Christmas sales.

Scott Taylor, chief executive at Glasgow City Marketing Bureau: "With more than 11million people shopping at Glasgow's Style Mile over an eight-week period of the festive season it is a crucial trading period for the retail and hospitality sectors.

"This is why Glasgow, with our retail partners, has inves- ted £200,000 in the Glasgow Loves Christmas and Glas- gow Loves Hogmanay campa- igns to back firms and promote what the city has to offer.

"At Christmas Glasgow's retailers show why the city offers the greatest shopping experience in Scotland."