TORRENTIAL rain and gale force winds refused to dampen the Darrener spirits on Saturday, as Darwen braved the winter weather to host its annual Christmas market.

Taking place on Croft Street in the centre of the town, over one thousand people armed with umbrellas, hats and gloves, turned out to support the event, which had Christmas craft stalls, food, drink, entertainment and much more.

Organiser, Samantha Taylor said: "I'd be lying if I said the wind and rain didn't affect the turnout but it was brilliant to see that so many Darreners did come out to support it, and even though the weather was awful, the market was still a success."

At one point during the day, the wind and rain became so bad that Miss Taylor said she had to make the executive decision to cease trading on the outdoor stalls and round everyone up under the entertainment tent.

She said: "The wind got up to around 30mph and some of the stalls were lifting off the ground, so we made the decision to shut the outdoor stalls later in the afternoon, but that didn't stop people from enjoying the music and drinks in the entertainment marquee which was busy right through the evening.

"We've got a brilliant community here in Darwen and we had a great variety of stalls there on the day, it's just a shame that the rain got the better of us."

Despite the storms, those who did turn out to support the Christmas market were treated to everything from hot chocolate, mulled wine and Yorkshire pudding wraps from Darwen traders Zest Cafe Lounge, and mince pies courtesy of Le Petit Bistro.

There was also facepainting and balloon modelling for the kids, and music and comedy from the likes of The Backup Band and Neil Elston.

Miss Taylor continued: "Next year we hope the market will be bigger and better than ever, as we'll have the new events space open and ready to use. We might look at doing it across two days, but whatever happens we'll be making the most of what Darwen has to offer."