A SHOPPING mall is preparing to host a European village market for the first time.

Dalton Park, near Seaham, will stage the event from Thursday to Sunday, May 20.

More than 20 stallholders will be offering a range of goods from Greek olives and creamy Continental cheeses to spicy sausages and dried fruit.

Anyone looking for gifts will find handmade bags from Italy and perfumes from Paris.

There will also be French wines and fruit ciders from Scandinavia.