A FLAVOUR of France was on offer to shoppers in Darlington yesterday.

French traders from the Gallic market made their first journey to the town to offer tempting wares from across the Channel.

Culinary delights such as wines, cheeses, cooked meats and breads, and a range of craftwork, were on offer.

More than 35 stalls were set up in the town's Market Square, creating a French ambience for visitors.

The market, which runs until Monday, is the idea of the Darlington Town Centre Initiative, which saw it as a way of attracting more people to the town.

Albion Small, chairman of Darlington Chamber of Trade, said: "It is great for the town. Hopefully, it will bring more people into the town centre, so that everyone in business benefits.

"I am hoping that the market will prove to be very popular and may become an annual event."

Pupils from Longfield School made posters as part of a competition to publicise the market.

The best four posters were then selected.

Years seven and eight pupils Katherine Holdstock, Leanne Hopkins, Adam Harrison and Jessica Vickers each received a framed copy of their work, and were introduced to Bruno Girardeau, the co-ordinator from the French side of the operation.

A spokeman for the Cornmill Shopping Centre management said: "The market has been well received, and we have had a lot of positive comments.

"We were thrilled that the school took an interest, and are part of the project."

Today and Monday, the French market will join with Darlington's outdoor market, and will open from 9am to 5pm.

Louise Payne, the town centre manager and organiser of the event, said: "There will be all the authentic tastes and crafts of France, adding to the continental style feel in the Market Square."