Crowds attend Christmas market at Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle

Over 115 local artisan traders set up stalls in the galleries and grounds of the Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle.

Visitors soaked up the seasonal atmosphere as they supported artists, makers and designers from across the region selling a wide variety of wares.

There was everything from books to beer and brownies, Christmas cakes and decorations to cheese and candles, jewellery and jam, dog treats and leads as well as pictures and pies.

Hannah Fox, executive director of The Bowes Museum, said: “We really enjoyed welcoming everyone to the Winter Market.

“The market supports dozens of local small businesses and artisan makers who sell a wide variety of unique and hand-crafted items, as well as food and drinks.”

Entertainment included music provided by five different choirs, two pianists, two instrumentalists, and a dance group.   

There was also the chance to learn new skills with the museum's artist makers.

Victoria Franka, a multi-media artist, and the museum's heritage artist in residence, taught people how to produce an early form of animation known as a thaumatrope where you create the illusion of two images becoming one.

Cath Hodgson passed on some of her skills as a printmaker inspired by nature with a love of colour.

Lesley Anne Rose, an animator and artist who specialises in model making and puppet creation, inspired visitors to learn and expand on their artistic skills in a series of workshops.

Visitors were also able to create some Christmas crafts to take home with them.

Ms Fox said: “People also loved learning new skills with the museum’s artist makers’ workshops over the three days of the event.

“It’s a truly wonderful way for people to start the festive season and enjoy time with their family and friends.”