Sparkling lanterns, glitzy window displays, a glass of fizz or two and some early festive gifts are all on the menu next week for Cockermouth’s Spirit of Christmas event.

The late night shopping event takes place until 8pm on Thursday, November 21, with most of the town’s retailers taking part.

Candles will light the doorways of the shops and restaurants giving the streets a cosy glow, with business owners offering a warm welcome inside – along with some special offers and refreshments - as the event marks the start of the Christmas shopping season.

Organised by Cockermouth & District Chamber of Trade, the event will also launch a new free prize draw with more than £2,000 worth of prizes up for grabs including hotel stays and three hampers. From hotel stays and photoshoots, to adrenaline-fuelled experiences and shopping vouchers, there will be three valuable hampers of prizes to be won.

Suzanne Elsworth, publicity officer for the Chamber of Trade, said: “When Cockermouth’s Christmas lights are lit and the shop, pub and restaurant windows are decorated, I reckon this is the prettiest town in the county.

“And you can find really special gifts for every member of your family, as well as your closest of friends, as well as eating and drinking to your heart’s content.

“The Spirit of Christmas event on November 21 is just the start – we’ve got the Taste Cumbria Christmas festival on Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8 too.”

“It’s a commonly-used phrase at this time of year, but Cockermouth definitely has Christmas all wrapped up.”