SHOPPERS on the hunt for unique and unusual gift ideas can look forward to a special seasonal market in the run-up to Christmas.

The Al Fresco Christmas Fair is coming to Ilford from Wednesday December 16th up to Christmas Eve, and will be open outside the Town Hall every day from 9am to 6pm, with special extended opening times on Wednesday 16th and 23rd.

A range of items from costume jewellery and pashminas to handbags and watches will be on offer.

Elsewhere, cosmetics will be available in special gift sets, and for those planning to give their homes an update in the New Year there will be a wide selection of cushions, curtains, bed linen and other soft furnishings.

Bargain-hunters will no doubt work up an appetite and international foods will be available, from French crepes and Asian noodles to Peruvian chicken and German sausages.

Ilford Town Centre Manager Neil Davis said: “Our Craft Fair in November drew a lot of attention from shoppers and we believe that the Al Fresco Christmas Fair will be even more popular.

“The atmosphere of the fair, which really celebrates community, is guaranteed to put shoppers into a festive frame of mind, and the huge range of products will ensure there is a gift for everyone.

”We hope that Ilford residents will take the opportunity to sample the different foods we have on offer from around the world and enjoy a little al fresco shopping in the ten days up to Christmas.”

For more information, please contact Neil Davis on 020 8478 3534.