The event takes place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 December in Risman Place, by the former Debenhams store, right in the heart of the town centre. Visitors will be able to pick up some lovely food, drink and crafts from the stalls, before visiting the town’s usual market, and the high street shops and eateries too. There will be a live music stage, organised by HMV, which will feature local singers as well as the Carnegie Theatre choir.

The Christmas market will also feature a ‘social village’ with local charities and organisations offering practical support and helpful advice.

Elsewhere in town will be the Rotary club’s Santa’s grotto, located in the former Vision Express store in the Washington Square shopping centre. The Council’s regular market will also be happening on the Saturday.

Councillor Mike Johnson, Leader of Allerdale Borough Council, said: “This event is ideal for those who love to leave their Christmas planning to the last minute, or the people who can’t resist ‘just one more present’ and those who want to treat themselves because all their festive planning is done!

“We’ve got some lovely events happening throughout the festive season and it’s going to be great to see our streets bustling with visitors. We’re blessed with such variety in our towns in Allerdale, with lovely independent businesses as well as some big high street names, so it’s the perfect place to be able to share the ‘shop local’ message this Christmas.”

The Workington Christmas Market is organised by Allerdale Borough Council, sponsored by Cumbria County Council and Sovereign Centros and supported by the Carnegie Theatre and HMV.

Some trader pitches are still available for the market and social village. Email ellie.jones@allerdale.gov.uk for details.