WINCHESTER'S first ever German Christmas Market has proved such a success organisers have vowed to bring it back next year - and make it bigger and better.

Tens of thousands of people have flocked through the market during its ten-day run. One stallholder selling Christmas wreaths had to return to his suppliers five times, while a French stall selling sausages and delicatessen products also had to return to France twice for more stock.

Those visiting the market have also been enthralled - some travelled from as far afield as Cumbria and Wales.

One family, the Wilkinsons from Sutton in Surrey, said: "We saw the market and ice rink advertised on the Internet and just thought it would be a fun day out for the children and for us, and it really has proved to be."

Hazel Southam, whose Real Jam and Chutney Company has done great business at the market, said: "It's been a real success. It's been busy almost every day and definitely worth the effort."

Tom Rodgerson from Sunderland, whose wreath stall has sold out almost every day, added: "It's been a great market. Business has been fantastic and we'll definitely come back."

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Echo, Winchester Cathedral market organiser Stephanie Swann, said: "I think it's been a resounding success.

"We will definitely be looking at doing it again next year and hopefully extending it to two or three weeks".

l Meanwhile Belarusian nuns Tatiana and Magdalena, say they have had a wonderful week in Winchester and will head back to Minsk in Belarus with lots of money for their orphanage.

The two sisters, along with helper Leonid, drove the 12,000 miles from their convent to the market to raise money for local causes back home selling produce made at their convent.