SHOPPERS can enjoy different markets this weekend as part of a national celebration.

Darlington Borough Council is taking part in National Market Fortnight, run by the National Market Traders' Federation.

The aim of the scheme is to promote different markets available nationally and encourage more people to visit and buy produce from indoor and outdoor stalls.

To support the campaign, Darlington is hosting a farmers' market on Friday and a French market from Friday until Sunday.

There will also be special events at the regular Saturday and Monday markets and in the covered market.

At the French market, there will be a free prize draw to win a hamper every day, as well as children's competitions.

A scratchcard competition will be run at the farmers' market and, in the covered market, there will be Punch and Judy, face-painting, balloon-modelling, hair-braiding and a competition to win a child's bike.

Leaflets advertising the events will be available from stalls, and shoppers can enter a draw to win £5,000.