A POPULAR festive market is returning to Darlington tomorrow, in time for the Christmas shopping period.

The traditional Christingle market will be open on High Row for the first three Thursdays in December, from 1pm to 8pm.

As well as buying gifts and crafts, shoppers will be able to enter a free prize draw to win a food hamper and sample free mince pies, mulled wine and roast chestnuts. There will also be music and entertainment.

The borough council's Town on the Move bus will be parked at the market, providing information about bus travel in the area and offering the chance to win an iPod. There will also be free bus travel from the town centre to destinations in the borough, from 6pm to 9pm, while the market takes place.