The magic of Christmas will return to Carlisle this week when the Disney store opens its doors.

The world-famous name - known for its plush toys and character costumes as well as some of the most famous cartoon characters ever - is opening a store in the Lanes Shopping Centre on Thursday.

Last Christmas the unit, which for many years was home to Miss Selfridge, was occupied by fashion retailer Jack Wills.

It marks a return to the city for the popular store, which used to have a shop in the centre’s Peascod Lane.

David Jackson, commercial director, of The Lanes, said: “It is great to see Disney opening again.

"They traded very well when they were last here as a pop-up shop but they weren’t able to do a permanent store.

“They have been recruiting this week and I know they are doing some training on Monday in our conference room.”

A new shop called Menkind, which sells men’s gadgets, watches and books, opened last week, near Primark.

Mr Jackson said: “They have been doing well. There have about 30 or 40 stores around the country, which are mainly pop-ups.

“It’s good to have them as they offer something a little bit different.”

A new hair products shop is also opening its doors in a unit down the stairs by Debenhams.

“It’s next to the little coffee shop,” said Mr Jackson.

“It will be opening in the next few weeks and it sells hair products like extensions and straighteners.”

Mr Jackson said The Lanes is now almost full in the run-up to Christmas.

“Most of our units are now taken which is good news.

"We have a good mix of shops and obviously Primark coming has been a real boost.”

Late night shopping starts in The Lanes on Thursday, November 17 - a few days before the official Christmas lights switch on in the city.