COCKERMOUTH will host its fourth annual Taste Cumbria Christmas Festival next month.

There will be a giant producers’ market with 60 stalls, a hot food court and bar packed with ales and fizz from Jennings brewery.

There will also be plenty of family activities and festive entertainment, with a fairground and Christmassy arts and crafts.

The event takes place on the weekend of December 8 and 9.

Festival organiser Anna Chippendale of CN Events said: “We’re already getting excited about being back in Cockermouth this December. We love it when the festival marquees fill with the smell of mulled wine, mince pies, spiced biscuits and hot chocolate, and we see the bread and cheese and cake piled high – not to mention hearing the clink of bottles.

“There’s always more than just food and drink on offer at our Christmas event. You’ll be able to pick up some lovely gifts and crafts, as well as homewares and pretty things.

“But what makes Taste Cumbria Christmas extra special is Cockermouth itself. We reckon this town has the loveliest Christmas lights in the county, and when all the shops put candle lanterns outside their doors and dress their windows with colour and light, it’s just beautiful.

“If you love food and drink, and fancy the chance to do some great festive shopping, Taste Cumbria Christmas is the place to be.”

This year the festival is organised in association with Allerdale Borough Council and Taste Cumbria and Cumbria Life magazines. Its main sponsors are Jennings Brewery, Cockermouth Town Council and The Coffee Kitchen.

For more information visit www.tastecumbria.com.