A CHRISTMAS market in the heart of Leigh’s old town will return for a fourth successive year to give residents the chance to pick up handmade arts and crafts.

Talented artists from across the city and beyond will once again descend on the festive Strand Wharf, opposite the Crooked Billet pub, on December 2 and 3 to hold pop up stalls and sell gifts, such as jewellery.

The idea came from Sara Welton, Amanda Kirk, Lee Dunn and Cerys Arthur in 2020 and has since gone from strength to strength.

Sara, owner of Sara’s Tea Garden, said: “We’re inviting all arts and crafts makers to come down and have a stall to sell their amazing creations.

“The market has been incredibly popular over the years and is very well supported.

“It’s all for the people and is a great opportunity for a get together and spread some holiday cheer.

“We are looking forward to welcoming everyone down for the weekend.”

In total, there is space for 24 stalls, with “well over a third” already being secured.

From 10am to 5pm, talented creators will be selling all sorts of items for Christmas presents, including candles, bracelets and bags.

Proceeds from the Christmas market will be going to a charity, which has yet to be decided.

Unlike previous years, there will be no stalls selling packets of sweets and boxes of cakes as the 2023 event will “focus more on the arts and crafts”.

Also, there will be no appearance from Father Christmas.

Carole Mulroney, Leigh ward Liberal Democrats councillor, said: “It’s fantastic to hear the bright and breezy Old Leigh Christmas market is coming back for a fourth year.

“I went to the event in 2021, and it was brilliant to see all the handmade items that were available and to see everyone coming together for a great day out.

“Anything that brings the community together, especially in the old town, to see the wonderful talent of the people living in the city is fantastic.”

To register an interest in setting up a stall at the Old Leigh Christmas market, contact Amanda Kirk on 0771 5008142.