Schoolchildren take part in market contest

Youngsters will be competing to see who can make the most profit on their Christmas stall. Picture by Sue Todd

The challenge is taking place today at The Alnwick Garden, from 9.30am to 1pm, and people are encouraged to come along and support the event.

The Garden has teamed up with Virgin Money’s Make £5 Grow project to host the competition.

Schools to be taking part in the Christmas Market challenge include Alnwick’s Swansfield Park Primary and the Duke’s Middle.

Pupils from Monkseaton Primary; Cambois Primary; Nunnykirk School; Berwick Academy; Kingston Park Primary; St Michaels Primary; Bedlington Community High School; Cedars Academy; Grove Special School; and Grasmere Academy will also compete.

The event will take place at the Christmas Market Marquee, next to the gift shop.

Toni Dunn, from The Alnwick Garden who is organising the contest, said: “We are working with young people who are interested in working together to produce their own products to sell for a profit on their own stalls on the day.

“The Young Entrepreneurs Christmas Market will open to the public from 9.30am.

“The atmosphere should be electric, with live music at different intervals. We are delighted to be showcasing local talent again from the schools in the area.

“We run our enterprise programme to empower, raise self-esteem and belief in themselves – giving much-needed life skills to our business leaders of the future.”

During the event, characters from Frozen will be helping to launch The Garden’s new skating rink.