AN ambitious Dalton school was transformed into a festive wonderland as it marked the end of the winter term by hosting its biggest ever European Christmas Market.

The annual event, which is organised by Dowdales School in Dalton, was held last Wednesday and gave hundreds of people the chance to browse over a spread of festive treats and homemade goods.

More than 35 stallholders helped the exhibition to run smoothly on the night as parents, charities, local businesses and primary schools all came together as one to bring a smile to the Dalton community.

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Creative pupils from Dowdales also used their entrepreneurial ability to run tombolas and sell craft decorations which they had made during extra-curricular clubs.

This year, an abundance of European signs, fairylights and gazebos, which were provided by BAE Systems, helped to transform two of the school's halls into an authentic market setting.

Entertainment was provided throughout the evening by the Acoustic Angels, Dowdales' school choir, who sang a selection of Christmas favourites to get everybody in the festive spirit.

Father Christmas, who appeared in a magical grotto, also went down a storm with some of the younger children from nearby schools who attended the community-orientated event.

Headteacher Julie O’Connor praised everybody involved as the market was heralded as the biggest one ever hosted by the school.

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She said: "Our European Christmas Market was a fantastic success and I would like to thank parents, carers, friends of the school and the Dalton community for coming out in force to support us.

"We had 37 stalls and hundreds of people, everyone enjoying the Christmas atmosphere and having some fun. It was great to see so many of our students there, contributing in such a meaningful way to making this year’s event such a success."