THOUSANDS of people are expected to head to Skipton this weekend for the first of two Christmas markets.

Following on from last weekend's turning on of the Christmas lights, Sunday (December 4) will be a chance for people to get further into the festive spirit and buy some presents - or maybe treat themselves to something nice.

Organised by Skipton Town Council, the High Street will be closed for both markets, there will be live entertainment and there will be a park and ride service to bring people into the town centre.

Skipton’s regular market will be in full flow and will be enhanced by more than 50 additional stalls featuring some of the region’s favourite artisan makers, crafters and gift stalls selling a whole range of Christmas-themed products.

Hannah Corrigan, Skipton Town Council's events and tourism manager, said: “This year is the 27th anniversary of the Skipton Christmas Markets and we have lots of festive entertainment planned for the town.

"This event is such an important day for retailers and market traders in town we are continuously looking at ways to evolve the event and improve the visitor experience."

She added: “We pride ourselves on the entertainment for the Skipton Christmas Markets – its what creates the festive atmosphere, the wonderful experience and the memories for event goers."

A live music stage throughout will feature local bands and musicians playing festive songs to keep the crowds entertained. There will also be walkabout entertainment, brass bands, carol singers, and even snow.

The event will conclude with a carol service in the grounds of Holy Trinity Church supported by Barnoldswick Brass.

Skipton High Street will be closed for the two Sundays with diversions in place around the town centre. To ensure the event can go ahead safely, overnight parking on the High Street setts will be suspended on the Saturday night – and the road will be closed from around 5am.

Jerry Croft will be closed through out the day, with access to the Town Hall car par accessible via Newmarket Street. Car Parking will be available at Cavendish Street and the Skipton Building Society Car Parks. There will be a coach dropping off area at Coach Street car park.

There will also be a park and ride scheme in operation at Gateway House, opposite Skipton Auction Mart, Gargrave Road, from 9am and 5pm.

For more details of the events visit the Skipton Christmas Market Facebook page at www.facebook.com/skiptonchristmasmarket