A GERMAN market could bring a traditional air to yuletide festivities this year.

There are plans to increase the number of themed markets to attract more people to the town centre.

The Town Centre Management Team needs formal planning permission if it plans to host a market for more than 14 days in a year.

A formal application has been lodged asking for permission to allow the highway in Canal Walk and Market Street to be used as a themed market area.

If permission is granted the German Christmas Market will take place from November 23 and December 23. It will sell goods like gingerbread, cakes, crafts and Christmas decorations.

Town centre manager Bernie Maguire said: "The themed markets have been very successful. The French market is returning for the fourth time in November.

"The German Christmas market will be in wooden huts rather than in stalls.

"They have had a German market in Lincoln and Bath which were very successful so I thought why not host one in Swindon?

"I have consulted with the town centre traders and they are all for this.

"They love the idea because markets attract people who wouldn't normally shop in the town centre.

"They increase choice for the customers and increase the number of shoppers in Swindon.

"We are trying to promote a regular Wiltshire farmer's market for next year, perhaps rotating the location so it is not just in the town centre.

"If there are any market traders out there who would like to move into the town, then I would encourage them to contact me."

Bhavani Vadde