THE crafty boaters who live on the Kennet and Avon Canal are returning to Bradford on Avon for Christmas for the second year running and for their 5th floating market event.

The highly-popular market for boat-owning artisans, artists and craftspeople is taking place on Saturday and Sunday, December 2 and 3, from 11am to 6pm on both days.

This year, the floating market is taking even more space, with over 40 traders, spread between a total of 14 boats, stalls on the towpath and also taking over the West Barn in the Tithe Barn complex.

With less than three weeks to go, the organisers are urging visitors from Bradford on Avon and the surrounding area to come and join them for mulled wine and carols over the weekend.

K&A Floating Market manager Sarah Golding, said: “Some new faces and many old favourites will be coming, including Dru Marland, a canal-based artist, poet, mechanic and bike fettler, who will be returning for the fourth time.

“As usual we have a wide range of crafts and skills on display. Clare from Woolycraft Wonders will be hand spinning wool, Laura from the Fender Boat will once again be demonstrating the traditional ropework skills generations of boaters have used, and one of our resident blacksmiths will be there with his portable forge.

“Responding to feedback, we also have a few food stalls this time. They include Wildflower Pizzeria, who prepare the pizzas on their boat and then cook them in a mini wood-fired oven, and Wolf Kitchen, our newest trader, who will be offering warming homemade soups and other tasty snacks.

“A full programme of musical entertainment is planned for both days including canal bands, the legendary Towpath Choir and the Canal Ministries Brass Band.

“To close the market on both evenings we will be parading down the towpath with lanterns, illuminating boats as we go, culminating carols around the tree in the grounds of the Tithe Barn.”

The boating community has also produced a calendar to raise funds for future markets and other events. Boaters submitted images and then voted to pick the winners.

Sarah added: “We have some lovely pictures giving a unique and personal insight into our lives. It's just £5 and will be available at the market.”

For more details, go to the Christmas Floating Market Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/events/143266352941950/