FOOD fanatics were given a taste of some of the region's finest culinary offerings at a new market that debuted in Radcliffe last weekend, and can look forward to some unique holiday treats later this year.

Radcliffe's first fine food market launched to huge acclaim on Saturday, with shoppers taking the opportunity to sample a range of local artisan produce at the Market Hall.

The project, set up the team behind Farrars Café and Tea Room and Manchester's popular Castlefield Market, has proved so successful that a Christmas Market will also be coming to the town from November.

Last weekend's event is set to be repeated every Saturday from 9am to 3pm, with traders from across the region keen to book a spot.

Organiser Jodie Bannister said: "We’ve had a wonderful response from both customers and traders following the first fine food market on Saturday. There is clearly a passion for quality, ethical and artisan food in the area.

"We already have an incredible line-up of traders for next week’s market and, because of the success so far, I’ve been inundated with requests from local producers to appear at future markets.

"There is certainly a real buzz going. What is clear, is that, there is a real demand for quality local events in Radcliffe, and with this in mind I’m confident the market is going to go from strength to strength.

"I hope this will be the first of many exciting ventures for Radcliffe Market Hall and the town in general."

Continuing with their aim to boost town centre regeneration efforts, an 'Off the High Street' Christmas Market, which was held in Manchester City Centre last year, will open in Radcliffe on November 26, running every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until December 19.

It will be held inside two large marquees to protect visitors and stallholders from the winter weather, and will offer unique artisan gifts, arts and crafts, as well as street food.

She added: "Our ‘Off the High Street’ Christmas Market provides something a little bit different to the standard Christmas fare.

"As such, I’m delighted to be able to bring this year’s event to Radcliffe. Having already launched the tearoom and the fine food market, we're looking at a number of ways to further enhance and improve the shopping experience for locals, visitors and traders alike. I’m positive that the Christmas Market will be a tremendous success."

Anyone interested in taking a stall at the Christmas market can find out more at radcliffefinefoodmarket.co.uk/contact