THOUSANDS of shoppers packed out a town's specialist festive market last weekend.

There was a party atmosphere at three markets in Guisborough last Saturday.

Punch and Judy, the Old Glory Band, a hog roast and street performers provided entertainment at the Christmas specialist, farmers' and traditional markets.

The event took place on the anniversary of the Guisborough's first farmers' market.

Market manager Anne Griffiths said: "I can honestly say it was a huge success. The weather was brilliant and the town was packed."

A total of 27 farmers sold goods at the farmers' market, 16 arts and crafts stall-holders sold goods at the specialist market and there were more than 30 traders in the traditional market.

Specialist trader Joyce Thistlethwaite, of Brotton, sold handmade teddy bears, each made from woven mohair.

Mrs Thistlethwaite, who makes three or four teddy bears a week and names them all, said: "It was a perfect Christmas market and there was a great atmosphere. We had a good day."

The Christmas market was organised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's events team, Gisborough Estates, Guisborough Market Town Initiative and arts and crafts organisation Brigantia.