VISITORS were able to browse stalls selling unique gifts at a Christmas market.

The Minories Galleries in Colchester hosted the two-day market which included plenty of stalls.

Artists and craft lovers from across Essex went along to sell their wares and there was even a bar selling mulled wine and cherry brandy.

Storyteller Jan Williams attended and told festive stories.

Artist Jude Lunn hosted a free family workshop and there was a magical Christmas grotto featuring Santa himself.

Julie Hobern, events co-ordinator at the Minories Galleries, said it was a busy weekend.

She said: “This year’s market was a great success, with more than 50 stalls in our Grade II listed building all selling a wide variety of beautiful hand crafted items from local artists.

“There was an amazing crowd of shoppers in to appreciate the wonderful stalls, mulled wine and the overall festive spirit.

“We received some really nice feedback from stall holders and customers alike, both thoroughly enjoying themselves.”

She added: “Our aim is to promote local artistic talent as well as the stalls which are raising money for fantastic causes such as Mila’s Journey - raising money for a three-year-old girl with bilateral dystonic cerebral palsy.”