Darlington'S market place will be transformed into a Christmas scene from days gone by.

Shoppers will get into the festive mood with free mulled wine, roasted horse chestnuts and the sound of carol singing and bell ringing during winter wonderland week from December 9 to 12.

Gifts and crafts will be on sale alongside fairground rides, including a helter-skelter, carousel and coconut shy.

The council's markets team is organising the event and students from Darlington College of Technology will design the promotional artwork.

Traders wanting to hold stalls can contact the team on (01325) 388692.