A FORMER prisoner of war camp that was home to almost 1,000 Italian and German men during the Second World War is attracting thousands of visitors with its continental festivities.

Harperley PoW Camp, near Wolsingham, County Durham, is holding German-style winter markets on four days a week until Christmas.

The camp is becoming a major tourist attraction, with a garden centre, gift shops and caravan site, and is being transformed into a Second World War museum.

Owners James and Lisa McCleod have organised seasonal attractions including festive lights, a Christmas shop and music.

In the first week of markets, an estimated 10,000 people visited the camp and were treated to stalls selling traditional decorations, food and drink, wooden toys and a Santa's Grotto in the former jail block.

The markets are open until December 23 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 2pm to 7pm, and Sundays, from 1pm to 5pm.