IT'S summer time and Lancashire folk will be flocking to the market during the next few days to view and buy pots of all shapes and sizes in one of the county's last remaining pot fairs.

The vibrant colours and atmosphere make it a firm favourite in the city's calendar as crafty pot lovers gather to cast their eyes over the wares on offer.

China, pottery, crystal and all manner of kitchen utensils are up for grabs at the historic event that stretches back as far as 1199 -- when the first charter was drawn up.

Originally, it was decided that the large fair would be held on August 15, with three specialist fairs each year, held where the Town Hall now stands.

Now, it is only the August fair that remains, but it brings in pot lovers from all over the country with many traders travelling up from The Potteries around Stoke-on-Trent.

Market manager, David Bullock, said: "The fair is as popular as ever. The pitchers provide entertainment for the shoppers. When they start to sell the crowds gather around just to listen.

"Many of the traders have stories to tell as they have been in the business for a long time and often have followed in their parents' or grandparents' footsteps.

"Even if they are not from Preston they can tell you a lot about it."

The fair opened on Monday and customers enjoyed fine weather. Preston Mayor Jonathan Saksena, visited the fair on Tuesday, as is tradition.

The market is open every day until Wednesday, August 28. On Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday it is open between 10am and 4pm. Every other day it is open between 9am and 8pm -- subject to demand.

mblackburn@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk