THE Essex Craft and Design show 2018 returns this weekend to RHS Garden Hyde Hall with its celebrated Christmas Gift Fair.

It takes place today, tomorrow and is then on again on Friday December 7 until Sunday December 9.

The double weekend event promises to be the perfect opportunity to buy unique gifts for all the family.

Opening times on each of the days are from 10am to 3pm.

More than 60 carefully selected designers, makers and artists selling their original handmade work will appear at each event, with an ethos that nothing mass produced or imported will appear, giving shoppers the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts for friends and family that won’t be found on the high street.

A spokesman for the event said: "Whether it’s handmade jewellery for her, craft beer for him, a beautifully scented candle for the mother-in-law, or treats for your favourite canine friend, there really is something for everyone.

"All of the exhibitors are passionate about the wonderfully individual pieces that they produce - a passion that is contagious once you get talking to them and find out the story behind their work.

"For example: the tweed fabric that is hand woven in Wales and then transformed in to beautiful handbags in Essex, the hand stitched leather belt, the intricacy of the hand knitted scarf, or the individuality of the handmade baby’s toy are just a small sample of the beautiful things to explore.

"This event is held inside RHS Garden Hyde Hall and entry to the Gift Fair is included in the admission price to the gardens and free for all RHS members.

"With free parking and the RHS Garden to explore, not only do you get to avoid the stress of high street shopping but you get to support home grown talent and know that there is a story behind each gift you buy."

RHS Garden Hyde Hall in in Creephedge Lane, Rettendon.

Admission to the event is included with normal garden entry to RHS Garden Hyde Hall and free for RHS members. For more details on Hyde Hall and the admission prices visit rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall

A 10 per cent discount is available for entry tickets bought online and in advance via the RHS website.

Further information visit essexcraftanddesignshow.com.