KINGSTON upon Thames' European-style Christmas market makes its long-awaited return to the town centre next week and preparation work has already begun.

The annual extravaganza, billed as one of the best Christmas markets in in London, has over 40 wooden cabins where traders can sell their wares.

It is inspired by markets in Berlin and has a live music stage, bar and food stalls in the ancient marketplace plus an Alpine Village and craft fair on the lawns of All Saints Church.

Opening on Thursday 18 November, the market is expected to draw huge crowds, with Kingston's Christmas footfall estimated to be 500,000 shoppers per week.

This is a stark contrast to last year when the open-air market sadly had to be cancelled due to tighter social distancing restrictions.

November 18 is also the date that Kingston's Christmas lights will also be switched on although this year there is no ceremony to mark the occasion.

Work has started to build the market, with both lawns on All Saints Church already covered by flooring and the Eden Crafts marquee partly constructed.

Details of some of the traders you can expect to see at the market have also been revealed.

Handmade wooden music boxes, beautiful and rare old maps, plant-based candles and oils, jars of 'moonshine' and luxury dog food subscription boxes are some of the interesting and unique products set to go on sale.

Food and drink includes Bavarian Bratwurst sausages grilled on an open flame, warm Belgian waffles with chocolate sauce, and locally brewed beer at the central Pyramid bar - plus mulled wine and hot chocolate.

Entertainment-wise, a live stage will feature comedy acts and music including a lederhosen-clad Oompah band. There's also a vintage carousel for the kids.

The free to enter market runs all-day every-day until December 24 so there's plenty of time to pop in, soak up the atmosphere and get a gift for that special someone.

What festive events are you looking forward to in Kingston this year? Are you organising something you'd like us to share? Add it to our What's On section HERE