Christmas fair gets local appeal

The market attracts visitors from across Europe

More local businesses and unique produce have been attracted to this year's Lincoln Christmas market, organisers have said.

The 2007 market attracted 140,000 visitors - a 15% drop on the previous year and the lowest since 2000.

Some complained there were too many fast food stalls and fairground rides.

Lincoln City Council said larger discounts offered to local traders had led to a more distinctive and diverse feel to the 300 stalls.

Hand-picked stalls

A city council survey after last year's event found that while 67% of people still rated the market as good or very good, the stalls were rated as average by most.

Councillor Hilton Spratt, portfolio holder for regeneration, tourism and culture said: "Every stall has been hand-picked from a raft of application forms to ensure we have the greatest variety and the highest quality of stalls possible.

"It has been particularly important for us to support local traders, and they have received discounted rates."

The market will begin on 4 December.