CHRISTMAS celebrations in York are in full swing with the return of the hugely popular St Nicholas Fayre, writes Hannah Bryan.

Thousands of shoppers have already flocked to the market which opened yesterday, with more than 250 coaches expected over the four-day event.

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of Visit York, said: “The St Nicholas Fayre is extremely important for York’s visitor economy, bringing thousands of visitors who spend not just at the Fayre itself but also in the city’s shops, restaurants and bars.

“Hotels and guest houses are anticipating an extremely busy weekend and month to come.”

Open until Sunday, the Fayre sees the city come alive with Victorian-themed market stalls, carol singers and costumed traders, while roasted chestnuts, Baileys hot chocolate and mulled wine are on sale to keep shoppers warm.

The market stalls on Parliament Street, St Sampson’s Square and Coppergate offer everything from jewellery, hand-painted glassware and homemade Christmas decorations, to Russian dolls, Victorian toys and local art.

Clive Moore’s Russian Crafts business is based in Wolverhampton.

“We’ve been coming to York now for 11 years. There’s a great atmosphere and there’s always huge crowds,” he said.

“I’ve had mothers come to my stall with their daughters years ago; they are now grown-up and come with their own daughters.”

Having been hailed the most Christmassy city in Britain, York’s festive celebrations give a huge boost to the local economy with visitors spending almost £50 million in the run-up to Christmas despite the current economic climate.

Richard Edhouse owns The Crusty Pie Company based in Halifax and has been coming to the fayre for 19 years.

“We’ve still been really busy despite the recession. After all people still want pies, recession or no recession.”