THOUSANDS braved the elements to enjoy Ramsbottom’s Christmas Markets last weekend.

Approximately 50 stalls lined Bridge Street and the gardens of St Paul’s Church on Saturday and Sunday, with a variety of food, drink, crafts and entertainment on offer.

For those wishing to take a break from the cold, drizzly weather which swept through the town, there was an indoor market inside Ramsbottom Civic Hall, hosting sundry stalls selling quirky handmade crafts and gifts.

It is estimated that about 5,000 people visited the markets over the two days.

Terri Fletcher, one of the event’s organisers, said: “We had horrendous weather, but the people of Ramsbottom are pretty tough so braved the elements.

“We’ve had great feedback from visitors. It was really nice that not only local people but also those from elsewhere came down.

“A place like Ramsbottom is great for traders with more quirky, unusual products.”Thousands enjoy Ramsbottom Christmas Markets