SINGAPORE - Ongoing restorations works on the Merlion statue at the Merlion Park will be extended to Christmas eve, said The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in a media release on Monday.

The statue, which is currently getting the faulty water basin lights at its base replaced, will be available for photo-taking from Dec 25 to Jan 3, said STB.

The agency added that it will be hoarded up again for regular cleaning from Jan 4 to 8.

"We seek the public's understanding as the works and barricades may cause some inconvenience. Meanwhile, the public is welcome to take photos with the Merlion cub statue at the Merlion Park," said STB.