Preparations are well underway for the first Oxford Christmas Market and organisers are determined that, come December, the city of dreaming spires will be full of festive cheer...

No need to fly off to Germany to experience the magical delight of a truly traditional Christmas market. Instead, this year be enchanted at The Oxford Christmas Market, taking place at the Oxford Castle complex from December 10 - 20.

It will be the first event of its kind in Oxford and visitors will find 30 beautifully-decorated stalls selling mostly handmade and fair-trade products.

The wide range of market traders includes: Tinklertastic & Fantasia Glass who make Fabulous dichoric jewellery and cufflinks, coasters, wall panels, bowls and gifts made from fused glass; Toft Alpacas who offers stylish and unique designs in modern British knitwear; Cuddlezoo who create patchwork quilts, sleeping bags and throws, fleece hoodies, hats, gifts and accessories all handmade in Wales; Skrunch specialise in funky handmade bags and coats co-ordinating a rich blend of vintage and retro textiles.

Other stalls include handmade candles and ornaments made from recycled materials, wooden handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations and pottery, to name only a small selection.

Helen & Douglas House and the Blue Cross have been given a free stall during the event, with the proceeds from their sales helping to support their worthy causes.

There will be plenty of Christmas foodie treats to enjoy and take home; hot mulled wine, fresh hot chocolate, gingerbread and German Christmas cakes and, of course, not forgetting delicious local sausage and mash from Oxford's very own The Big Bang.

Organiser Nicole Rahimi said: "I really hope we can create an unforgettable magical and festive event for the people of Oxford this year - and for years to come."

The Oxford Christmas Market really will be an authentic Christmas wonderland with local choirs and brass bands, including Oxford University Brass Band and Opera Anywhere performing Christmas carols throughout the ten days.

Children will delight in the Victorian carousel, while even the adults will be swept away by the festive spirit.

For more details please visit: www.oxfordchristmasmarket.co.uk