MARKETS across East Lancashire will burst into life with a carnival atmosphere as traders take part in week-long campaign aimed at encouraging people to change their shopping habits.

Blackburn, Burnley and Pendle are among hundreds of towns organising activities for the second Great British Market Week between August 9 to 17.

The initiative has been designed to increase awareness and boost trade by reminding communities about the benefits of markets.

Stallholders are promising a host of competitions at Nelson and Colne's indoor and outdoor markets, including offering a £50 voucher to a person who finds six market week logos hidden in stalls.

Children will be invited to draw their ideal stall. Entries will go on display and the winner will receive a voucher to spend in the market.

A barbecue cooking demonstration using produce widely available from stalls on Blackburn's two markets will be staged on Wednesday, August 13.

Traders on Blackburn and Darwen markets are also cooking-up a range of promotions.

Visitors to Burnley market will be greeted by a jazz band on both Saturdays.

A prize raffle, face painting and line dancing are among the other activities planned.

Padiham market will have a pianist taking requests on Friday, August 15. All cash raised from the fun, including a national prize draw boasting a cash prize of £10,000, is to be donated to Barnado's. Shoppers can place their requests with organist Mike Slater, who will play everything from song from the shows to the latest hits.

Michael Brown, one of the traders, said: "The market is at the heart of the local community.

"Great British Market Week gives us a chance to show our appreciation of our regular customers and attract new customers with special offers and events."

Shoppers in Padiham can also enter a free national prize draw with the chance of winning £10,000 first prize and seven regional prizes of £1,000.

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