BATH is set to go Christmas crazy next Thursday when the city welcomes the launch of its first-ever Christmas market along with the switching on of the festive lights.

The event will be marked with a concert at Bath Abbey, starting at 5pm, at which 100 local children will sing carols and then walk through the streets of Bath carrying paper lanterns.

The children will finish their walk at Kingston Parade at 5.50pm where they will gather round a stage to watch the Mayor, the chairman of the council and the Deputy Mayor from the city's twin-town Braunschweig turn on the Christmas lights.

The Christmas market, similar to the popular festive markets seen on the continent, will then open for business.

Operating until December 2 from Kingston Parade, next to the Abbey, as well as in Abbey Green, the market promises food (with a German theme), books, seasonal gifts and items from the cream of Bath's independent retailers.

The market is the brainchild of Liberal Democrat councillor Gitte Dawson and fellow councillor Marian McNeir. Cllr Dawson said she got the idea from Braunschweig's traditional lantern procession.

She said: "This is one of my favourite German traditions. Children love joining together to carry their lit lanterns through the streets, making a row of brightly coloured shapes in the dark.

"Next year, it would be nice if a sponsor could be found or a shop to import and stock the paper lanterns for people to buy."

According to Bath Chamber of Commerce, the market has already been helping to attract people to the city.

A spokesperson said: "The Christmas Market is already attracting attention both in the UK and abroad with coach operators making enquiries.

"Some are considering using Bath as a change to their usual visit to Lincoln."

Extra Christmas lighting is planned for New Bond Street, Westgate Street, Cheap Street and the Sawclose. To finance these new illuminations, the Chamber is appealing for donations.

Frank Collins, president of the Bath Chamber, said: "All levels of contribution £75 upward will be much appreciated."

For further information, call (01225) 460655.