The European Union flag outside the National Assembly for Wales, Cardiff, has been lowered, marking the moment Britain left the EU.

The historic event took place at 11pm on Friday 31st January 2020 - more than three years since the public voted to leave in a national referendum.

The EU flag was replaced by the Union Jack, with two Welsh flags now flying in front of the Senedd.

Those in support of Brexit celebrated with parties across Wales, while others held vigils to reflect on 75 years of peace in Europe and "show solidarity" with European neighbours.

The First Minister of Wales told ITV Cymru Wales he would "probably be in bed" instead of having a party.

Revellers at The Rock Pub in Blackwood, Caerphilly, celebrated with tapas and champagne. The pub also hosted an event on the night of the referendum in 2016.

In Rhyl, The Bodfor Pub held a Union Jack-themed party with music and food all originating from the UK.

A vigil was held by campaign group Cardiff for Europe to "celebrate our European identity and to show solidarity with our European friends."

The event organisers said: "We will be joining together to make it clear that we will always be European.

"Our European friends, neighbours and colleagues are welcome here."

Those feeling less celebratory about the occasion lit candles at the Cenotaph, Cardiff.

The First Minister said he was "nervous" about an "inherently uncertain" future.

"There will be people right across Wales, whatever their views of Brexit, who will be anxious about what the future brings," he said.

Mark Drakeford AM delivered a speech in Cardiff on Friday, pushing a message of hope: "We need to take comfort from our history, hope for the future.

"Wales goes on."

A count down clock is projected onto 10 Downing Street, when, at 11pm, the UK will leave the European Union after 47 years. Credit: PA Images

The prime minister said Brexit marks “not an end, but a beginning."

Addressing the nation an hour before Brexit, Boris Johnson said: "We want this to be the beginning of a new era of friendly cooperation between the EU and an energetic Britain, a Britain that is simultaneously a great European power and truly global in our range and ambitions.

"And when I look at this country's incredible assets, our scientists, our engineers, our world-leading universities, our armed forces, when I look at the potential of this country waiting to be unleashed I know that we can turn this opportunity into a stunning success.

"And whatever the bumps in the road ahead I know that we will succeed."

Very little will immediately change as a result of the deal Mr Johnson agreed with Brussels and the 27 remaining member states.

There will now be a 'transition period' that's scheduled to continue until the 31st of December, as both sides seek to strike a trade deal.