Carlisle is bracing itself for a Christmas shopping bonanza this weekend as people prepare to start their present buying and splash their cash.

Christmas is all set up in the city with a festive artisan market and Santa is set to arrive in The Lanes Shopping Centre this weekend.

More than 50 local traders including some community groups have set up stalls.

The market runs until Sunday in the pedestrianised area outside the Old Town Hall. It has been organised by Sustainable Brampton in partnership with Carlisle City Council and Food Carlisle.

The opening times are 11am to 6.30pm today and tomorrow and 11am to 4pm on Sunday.

On the shops front, fashion retailer New Look is opening its doors in a new location in The Lanes today.

Fitted out in the latest shop fit from its London Oxford Street store, the retailer will stock the latest trends in womenswear including top party pieces for the upcoming festive season. In addition there will be an AX Paris concession, its childrenswear label 915, shoes and accessories.

David Jackson, commercial director for The Lanes Shopping Centre, said: “We are delighted that New Look are able to remain in Carlisle and indeed within The Lanes. Every member of staff has managed to keep their job which is great for them and the local economy as we approach Christmas.”

The store had announced it was leaving the city after plans were submitted to turn its former unit into three separate shops but it then decided to stay and is reopening in the unit formerly occupied by Toys R Us.

Clothing shop Monsoon, which suffered a fire last Thursday, has also reopened after being shut for a week.

Meanwhile, the Blue Inc store in The Lanes has closed.

Holly Woodhead, marketing manager said: “The Blue Inc store in The Lanes Shopping Centre has now closed and all stock has been transferred.”

Santa is in The Lanes Central Square every weekend between 11am and 3pm.

A minimum donation of £3 is requested. Proceeds will go to Cash for Kids Mission Christmas appeal ensuring each child in Cumbria receives a gift this Christmas.