WELSH World Heritage town Blaenavon is joining the UK Christmas markets circuit this winter with an ambitious programme of events.

Along with over 20 stalls selling high quality and unusual gifts, crafts and other local produce, the first weekend in December will see the town hosting a Victorian Christmas show in its impressive Workmen's Hall, music from local choirs and the Town Band, and a visit from Santa's reindeer and elves.

The Heritage Town Festive Weekend on December 4-6 is being organised by Blaenavon Traders' Association, who feel confident that recent improvements to the town centre and the opening of some stylish new stores will make it an attractive proposition for shoppers.

"The recent regeneration of the town - coupled with beautiful scenery - means Blaenavon is the perfect location for visitors and locals to spend the day browsing, walking and taking in the unique industrial heritage," said Ryan Redman, Chair of The Blaenavon Traders Association.

"We have some unique independent shops here that offer something different to the big city high streets and all within this wonderful setting. The infrastructure is in place now and we want to encourage more visitors, as well as like minded small businesses that have something different to offer the community."

Blaenavon gained World Heritage Status in 2000 and is only the second site in Wales to have done so, following the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd.

Located conveniently between Newport and Abergavenny at the south eastern end of the Brecon Beacons National Park, it is within striking distance of Cardiff, Bristol, Hereford, Monmouth, Hay-on-Wye and Gloucester.

The highlight of the weekend promises to be Christmas in the Parlour at Blaenavon Workmen's Hall on Friday December 4. This Victorian evening of festive tales, sing along carols and 'some of the most beautiful music written for the voice' will be performed by opera singers Pippa Longworth and Karl Daymond.

The following day will see a visit from Santa's reindeer and elves in the town centre, while on Sunday 6, Santa's Grotto will be open for business at Bethlehem Court and a lantern-lit 'Living Nativity Play' will take in a walk around Blaenavon town following the story of the birth of Jesus. On every weekend in December, Blaenavon's Heritage Railway is putting on 'Santa Steam Specials', a trip on a steam train to Santa's Grotto, while Big Pit Mining Museum is offering children the chance to meet Mother Christmas. Throughout November and December, shops will be open until 8pm on Thursdays.