TONIGHT marks the start of the Christmas shopping period as the much-loved Salisbury Christmas Market returns for its fourth year.

Shoppers are sure to be entertained this evening, with performances from the award-winning Flame Oz, Halo, Stick Toffee Jazz and the Military Wives Choir.

The launch will see the start of late night shopping in Salisbury as stallholders and retailers give visitors the chance to kick off their Christmas shopping in style.

Kat Salmon, who works for Salisbury Business Improvement District, said: “This year we’ve got a big schedule of Christmas entertainment and we’re very excited to have internationally-renowned Flame Oz and Halo performing at the opening event.

“There’s also a new food, drink and entertainment area which we’re quite excited about.

“We’ve got 150 coaches booked to visit the market this year, which is 50 more than last year, so many more people are definitely coming to what is fast becoming a “must visit” Christmas event.”

This year’s market will be bigger than before as it welcomes more than 130 stall holders, with old favourites and new stalls.

Visitors can expect a range of festive gifts including arts and crafts, food and drink, high-end wool products, ceramics, ethical wares and more.

The stalls will change weekly to make sure there’s always something new.

Festive footprints are also an addition to the Market Place which will guide visitors out to the shopping areas of the city.

The opening event will start at 5pm tonight in the Market Place.