THE unique sights and sounds of a German marketplace were enjoyed by dozens of lucky schoolchildren during a memorable trip to Cologne.

A party of 39 youngsters and five teachers from Forest School in Snaresbrook got to tour the medieval city's famous stalls and sample some of the region's tasty winter treats.

The group also got to check out some of the most famous sites in the centre of the city, much of which was rebuilt after being seriously damaged by bombing during the Second World War.

Highlights included the imposing Gothic Cathedral and chocolate museum and a trip to the famous Marco-Polo Ice Cafe.

Valentine Elad, who teaches German at the school in College Place, said: "There is no more picturesque a time to visit Cologne than during the colourful weeks leading up to Christmas.

"I have been before and seen all of the wonderful tastes and sights - but this was the most fabulous of trips. It was charming and every market looked just like a postcard. No one does Christmas like Germany.

"Everyone was very happy not to have missed out on this vibrant carnival city, also famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral and traditional and medieval Christmas markets, with its air of nostalgia and authentic seasonal treats, the famous chocolate factory and the Marco-Polo Ice Café.

"We enjoyed a dreamlike atmosphere at Phantasialand and an explosive disco party crowned it all.

"I would like to thank my colleagues for not only their hard work round-the-clock for four days, but also for their acute sense of judgement. Our boys and girls, too, were just first class in every respect."