The prestigious Bradford International Market got off to a bright if rather damp start last night.

Hundreds of people packed into Centenary Square for a huge fireworks display marking the beginning of the biggest outdoor market to ever come to the city.

Hosting the market, which is held in a different European city every year, is a huge coup for Bradford but it has led to some apprehension from some of the city centre's permanent traders.

Some store owners are said to be concerned about the possible impact of the market's 300 stalls on their Bank Holiday takings.

The International Market is expected to attract more than 300,000 visitors to the city between now and Monday.

It got underway with dancing and musicians performing among the crowds who tucked into beer and bratwurst.

Babies in prams were brought into town especially for the atmosphere where everyone was simply having a good time.

One woman from Tasmania - visiting relatives - couldn't resist joining in some Caribbean dancing.

Margaret Benson, whose daughter-in-law comes from Bradford, flies home at the weekend. She said: "It is very cosmopolitan and wonderful just to see everyone getting on together.

"I wish the whole world could see what is happening in Bradford tonight."

Linda Peltier-Binns from Wibsey, leading the dancers, said: "This weekend is not just a market selling wares. It is about Bradford selling itself and that is really positive."

Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Irene Ellison-Wood welcomed the crowds saying: "We shall take this opportunity to show the pride in our city and reveals what makes Bradford such a special place.

"Bradford is a European city and it is absolutely appropriate that it was chosen to host the international market."

Before the opening some people did express worries about the effects of the market on their businesses.

Mary Frame, an executive member of the Bradford District Chamber of Trade, said: "Some are fearful of the short-term impact of the market possibly being a bit negative, but we have to look at the long term and are hoping it will benefit all the economy.

"The International Market is almost unique, it isn't in this country very often, so it is difficult to measure the impact. But it is a great opportunity for new people to see Bradford."

However she said it could be a difficult few days for store owners who fear that shoppers only have a limited amount of money to spend.

Councillor Simon Cooke, Bradford Council's executive member of regeneration, said: "There will be a lot of people in town over the weekend, and local shops and traders should take this opportunity to cater for visitors who will not normally be in Bradford - it may even make them some money."

The market runs until Monday.