COLCHESTER Castle will play host to a festive market this weekend.

The market will take place outside the Norman keep's walls from Friday until Sunday.

It will see a number of independent traders selling festive treats and gifts from stalls on the grass verges around the castle.

Amongst the offerings will be gourmet coffee beans, Spanish churros, pastries, sausages, Belgian chocolates.

There will also be mulled wine and beer on sale and a seating area.

The market is run by Colchester Council alongside the Colchester Events Company and the Market Square Group.

It is supporting the Tom Bowdidge Foundation, which was launched in memory inspirational Tom, from West Bergholt, who died aged 19 fighting an aggressive stomach cancer.

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Annie Feltham, Colchester councillor responsible for leisure, said: “I am delighted that Castle Park will be hosting this festive event.

“The castle and the park will provide a beautiful backdrop for the stalls and entertainment – all adding to the spirit of Christmas.

"So I encourage residents and visitors to come along and see what Colchester has to offer this weekend."

The event will run from 11am to 8pm on Friday, from 9am to 7pm on Saturday and from 10am to 6pm on Sunday. Entry is free.

Limited trading space is still available and bookings are being taken for singers and musicians.

For more information, email info@marketsquaregroup.com.