With less than eight weeks to go until the big day, Marketing Cheshire has been busy masterminding Chester’s Christmas Market plans for 2014.

The market team is now appealing for micro-breweries from the area to get involved in the new covered bar area this year.

No brewery is too small to be considered as a guest ale, and as part of the events programme there is a planned ‘meet the brewer’ evening with brewing experts chatting to enthusiasts and enjoying a festive tipple.

The festive chalets are built by local craftsmen at Cheshire Sheds, in Northwich, and several local companies are involved with the event. More than 50% of traders already signed up are from Cheshire, Wirral and North Wales. New businesses joining include: The Jaunty Goat coffee shop, Cakes 2 Remember and The Ice Cream Farm.

Marketing Cheshire head of campaigns Nicola Said said: “Last year we invested a great deal of time into consulting with both stall holders and visitors and have been able make several of those helpful suggestions happen in 2014.”

There will be a new tented craft area on Library Square to encourage families to visit the market and get creative in child-friendly workshops.

So far local suppliers such as Forest Explorers at Delamere, The Potters Barn in Sandbach, The Spotty Pig in Chester and local Chester church Vineyard 53 have signed up. Local performers and acts are also being urged to get in touch.

To get involved, contact Helena Gale-Hasleham on 01244 405603 or email h.gale-hasleham@marketingcheshire.co.uk.

Visit www.christmasinchester.com for more details.