Shoppers are being given extra time to get the Christmas shopping sorted in time for the festivities, with Bradford Council-run markets across the district extending their opening hours.

One of the markets that is opening for longer over the coming days is Keighley Market, where shoppers are stepping back in time this Christmas.

Traders and staff at the Low Street site are donning period costume to help recreate a Victorian festive feel.

And the initiative is raising money for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice, Manorlands.

The venture began last weekend, and is being repeated on Saturday, December 23, and Christmas Eve.

Santa will also be in his grotto at the weekend. Entry to the grotto is £2 and each child will receive a gift.

There is also face painting and a short film, Santa and his Elves At Work, is being screened.

A tombola stall features an array of prizes donated by the traders.

A huge teddy bear is the prize in a special draw, which costs £2 to enter. All proceeds will go to Manorlands.

The Bradford Council-run market is open extended hours from 8.30am to 5pm weekdays and Saturdays in the run-up to Christmas, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

It is closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Meanwhile, in Bradford, The Oastler Shopping Centre, in John Street, and the Kirkgate Market, which is attached to the Kirkgate Shopping Centre, have also extended the times they will be open in the run up to Christmas.

This week, up to and including Saturday, The Oastler Shopping Centre will open from 8am to 6pm. On Sunday, it will be open from 10am to 4pm, but is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Meanwhile, the Kirkgate Market’s opening hours this week are 9am to 5.30pm up to and including Saturday, 9am to 7pm on Thursday and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Christmas Eve.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, the council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said “We have fabulous markets in our district.

“Whether it’s festive food for the big day or Boxing Day or gifts for your family and friends, I’m sure there will be something for everyone.

“It’s such a busy time of year so I’m sure these extended opening hours will be welcomed by shoppers.”

He applauded the backing for Manorlands.

Yvonne Bryant, who runs the Just for Paws pet shop in Keighley Market and is one of the event’s main organisers, said: “It’s been really good to get the traders together and put this on.

“There really is something for everyone at the market in Keighley and we wanted to put something on to encourage families and children in the area to come along to celebrate Christmas.”

Keighley Market is a long-time supporter of Manorlands.

Last Christmas, traders and staff raised over £2,000 for the hospice with a series of festive activities.