A shopping district is following up on the success of a summer carnival by hosting a Christmas event.

Traders in Kemp Town in Brighton are organising a traditional Christmas market with a parade and live entertainment, to attract shoppers and raise money for charity.

Plans put together by the Kemp Town Village Business Association include a lantern parade through the village before an official ceremony to turn on Christmas lights.

The Brighton Heart Support Trust will receive all funds raised.

Gill Mitchell, Brighton and Hove City Council's East Brighton member, said: "I'm all in favour of an event which involves local businesses, residents and community groups pulling together to celebrate at a special time of year.

"People who live and work in Kemp Town Village are justly proud of this area.

"It has a friendly, vibrant atmosphere, a great cluster of fabulous, independent shops and a real community feel."

Liz Barrett of Foto Finish in St George's Road, Kemp Town, who is leading the team organising the event, said: "We're keen to host an event where people can enjoy the build up to Christmas.

"Of course, it will be ideal for present shopping because the retailers in the village pride themselves in sourcing irresistible products that you won't find anywhere else in the city.

"But what we would really love is for families and friends to come along, enjoy the fun and soak up the atmosphere."

The festival will take place on Sunday November 27 from 10am.

Many shops are extending their hours to be open every Sunday from then until Christmas.

For more information and enquiries about stall availability, email liz@fotofinishbrighton.co.uk or telephone 01273 679845.

Friday, October 28, 2005