CHRISTMAS shoppers will take a trip back in time this weekend as the medieval festival comes to Skipton.

The High Street will be closed to make way for a day of market stalls, entertainment and carols, both this Sunday and next Sunday (December 14).

The market - the ninth to take place - is organised by Skipton Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

Entertainment starts around 10am and spectacular fight re-enactments are planned to take place at 12.15pm and 2pm.

Other attractions include strolling minstrels, clog dancers and brass bands. A grand lantern procession and carols will mark the end of the day at 4pm.

Market traders and shop assistants add to the atmosphere by dressing up in period costumes. This year they will be given tabards to wear with the Skipton crest on it and a white cross on the back.

Committee member Norman Spence said: "The committee of the medieval festival works extremely hard throughout the year.

"If it wasn't for the committee, the event would not take place and the shops and traders would not benefit from the huge extra influx of visitors.

"Some of the multi-national businesses have refused to take part but they are keen to hold their hand out for the extra profit."

Mr Spence thanked Woolworths, H Samuel, Laura Ashley, Next, Boots the Chemist and Boots Opticians for agreeing to dress up alongside other market traders and shop assistants.

Mr Spence said: "It is going to be the best ever event. We are even looking forward and planning extra events for next year."

Festival chairman Joan Evans said she already had bookings for 150 coaches for the two weekends."I have had a lot of inquiries from people wanting to stay for the weekend," she said.

She said that it was likely there would be 90 coaches each day.