ROSSENDALE'S markets team has offered support to traders who were left disappointed by the cancellation of Ramsbottom's Christmas markets.

Catherine Taylor, of Rossendale Markets Management, has come forward after learning about Ramsbottom traders' anger at Bury Council's decision to cancel the annual markets, held on the first three Sundays in December.

She said: "I was really sorry to hear that the markets will not be going ahead as usual.

"On behalf of the market management I would like to express our support to the traders and let them know that they would be very welcome to trade on any of our markets over Christmas.

"Our markets are not far away from Ramsbottom so traders and customers should find us easy to get to.

"Any traders who would like to take up a stall on any of Rossendale's Markets should contact 07814 719346 or 07814 719337."

There are special festive market events across the Valley throughout December.

A Fantasia event is being held at Rawtenstall Market, including a close up magician, free mulled wine and mince pies, carols and Father Christmas on Saturday, December 9.

There is also late night Christmas shopping on Haslingden Market on Tuesday, December 5, on Bacup Market on Wednesday, December 13, and on Rawtenstall Market on Thursday, December 14.

At each of the late night shopping events there will be free sherry and mince pies for guests, a chance to meet Father Christmas, and carols sung by a local choir.

There is no extra cost to traders trading on these days. Charges for stalls start at £8.60.