Abergavenny market hall is being transformed into a Christmas wonderland this Saturday (November 21) in readiness for the seasonal festivities.

There will be stalls selling festive food and drink, rides for children, carol singing and much more. Mr and Mrs Christmas will also be paying a visit - and free antlers will be available courtesy of Abergavenny Town Council.

The market is open from 9am to 5pm and the big Christmas light switch-on - including the new display of lights in Nevill Street - is at 4.30pm. Everyone’s welcome to enjoy a mulled wine and a mince pie while browsing the festive stalls.

Meanwhile around forty businesses in Abergavenny are gearing up for a late night Christmas shopping extravaganza running until 8pm on Thursday December 10, organised by Love Abergavenny.

Some shops will be running special promotions to draw in the crowds while, at the market hall, Gwent Bach Society will be offering some added festive cheer.

Shoppers who purchase anything on the evening will be entered into a raffle which will be drawn in the market hall from 8pm. Prizes include a winter hat from Alison Tod, a beauty hamper from Shackleton’s, gift vouchers and much more.

Jazz will be playing outside FORTY-SIX on the evening and a horse and carriage will be taking people through the town from outside the Angel Hotel between 6pm and 8pm.

To boost Christmas trade around the county Monmouthshire County Council has agreed with town councils and chambers of trade to provide free parking on three dates next month.

Abergavenny, Chepstow and Monmouth will offer free parking on the Saturdays of December 5, 12 and 19.

Councillor Phil Hobson, Monmouthshire County Council’s cabinet member for Community Development said, “It costs the council around £19,000 in lost revenue each year but of course our towns benefit enormously from increased custom in shops and restaurants. And it reminds people what a brilliant range of outlets we have in our towns.”

In the approach to Christmas the council will host markets at the Market Hall in Abergavenny, the Cattle Market and Shire Hall in Monmouth and the Precinct at Caldicot. The council has advertised the free parking dates in its car parks.