COFFINS, "vampires", fortune telling, tattooing and face painting were among the attractions that helped to raise the profile of Warrington Market this week, to mark Great British Market Week.

On Saturday, the market was "like Christmas" it was so busy, according to Carol Cooper, assistant markets' manager.

The Vampire Society, brought their skulls and coffins, and a full day of attractions included a mini disco to keep the children happy.

It was a hectic day for Carol, who dashed to the Manchester studio of GMR to be on air for 7.45, singing the praises of the market.

She told the GUARDIAN: "We want to raise the profile of the market. It is suffering from large retail outlets, supermarkets and out of town shopping.

"One of the best points about the market is its friendly atmosphere. If you come often enough, people know your name. They might even know your order. If you go to a supermarket, you see only one face at the checkout. The market provides a great variety of shopping."

The Vampire Society, from Manchester, declined GMR's offer to join Carol on air.

Among Warrington people who provided entertainment during the week were Lorraine Hall, who did henna tattooing, and Robbie Turner who did Tarot and astrology readings. Both from Salsa in Bridge Street.

Other events included a charity auction, and a Dutch street organ, on Wednesday.

Animals from Walton Hall were on show in a pen on the market, yesterday and they are there again today. The week will be rounded off tomorrow with puppets and caricatures.

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