THE popular Wells Christmas Market will be back in December for its third year.

Following the success of previous years, organisers Mendip District Council say the Wells Christmas Market is fast becoming one of the must-visit markets in the build up to Christmas.

More than 100 traders will fill Wells Market Place with festive stalls, offering a range of gifts, crafts and food and drink produce, giving shoppers and visitors to the city the chance to pick up some last-minute gifts and indulgent treats.

The Wells Christmas Market will open on Wednesday, December 19, and will run until Saturday, December 22, from 9am-4pm each day.

Sponsors Lilley's Cider will be at the event selling their range of cider and gifts and serving mulled cider from the chalet based near the Bishop's Eye.

Councillor Nigel Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood and Community Health Services, said: "Last year's Wells Christmas Market was a massive success, we are delighted to be bringing back this popular market again this year.

"Once again the market will have a festive feel, with Christmas music and seasonal refreshments available to help get shoppers in the Christmas mood."

Father Christmas is making a special stop in Wells to join in the festive fun, and will be attending daily.

Children stopping by to meet Father Christmas will be treated to a choice of sweets or fruit, which have been donated by Wells supermarkets Tesco and Morrison's.

Wells Blue School, Wells Cathedral School and the Wells Choral Society will be providing music throughout the event, filling the Market Place with Christmas carols.

Free parking is available in Mendip District Council owned car parks in Wells for the duration of the Christmas market, from December 19-24. Free parking is limited to three hours at Union Street and South Street car parks.

For more information on the Wells Christmas Market and other Mendip markets, visit: www.mendip.gov.uk/markets