CHRISTMAS crafts galore were on sale in Newport Market this Saturday, while the first Newport Winter Food Festival also brought in the crowds.

Shoppers could get unique, handmade gifts made locally such as jewellery, wood carvings, dog treats, knitted items, artificial flowers and cards at a fair in the market, upstairs in The Gallery.

After the event, organisers took to their social media sites to thank everyone who visited. They said: “A big thank you to all stall holders and visitors who came to our first festive market. Have a great Christmas!”

The Salvation Army were out in full force with seasonal festive music in the market, while extra roving musicians performed along Commercial Street and Bridge Street.

Cllr Debbie Wilcox, cabinet member for leisure and culture said: “I popped by the food festival and picked up some olives at around 11am and there was already a really good crowd there.

“From what I hear there was a good, steady stream of people throughout the day and I think that’s wonderful. It was lovely to see so many people being drawn to the city centre and there was a really good feel factor in the air.”

More events will be held at the market in the coming weeks, including next Saturday when a comic fair will run from 10am until 4pm selling TV and film memorabilia, autographs, photographs, posters and more. The City of Newport Male Voice Choir will sing carols on the same day, from 11am until 1pm.