PLANS are well under way for the first ever festive market at a popular events venue.

Braxted Park, just outside Tiptree, has never opened its doors to the general public despite being a hugely popular venue for weddings and corporate events for a number of years.

But as part of owner Duncan Clark's involvement in Maldon District Council's a Sense of Place Campaign the estate is putting on its inaugural Christmas Market on December 1 and 2.

The Sense of Place Campaign has been set up by the council to promote Maldon as a place to live and work.

Duncan Clark said the estate, which includes the Grade II* Listed house and 500 acres of park lands, is delighted to be putting on the free event with the help of Maldon District Council.

"We are proud to be championing local businesses and artisan producers from across the area.

"There will be something for everyone, so whether you are looking to buy some handmade Christmas presents from local businesses, enjoy some locally produced food and drink or even just want to meet some of Father Christmas's reindeer do come along and see us for this brilliant festive celebration.

"This part of Essex really does have some amazing food and we want to promote that and the place we live in," he added.

The market, from 10am to 3pm each day in the estate's famous walled garden pavilion, will include a host of artisan stalls from gifts and decorations to food and drink, wine and spirit tasting, the chance for youngsters to decorate edible treats in Mrs Christmas's Kitchen and an appearance from his reindeer.

Entertainment will be provided by choirs from a number of local schools including Heybridge and Baynards in Tiptree, the Rockabellas, the Big Sing Community Choir and Funky Voices.

There will also be Cookery masterclasses on each day from head Chef at Braxted Park's Cookery School William Grinstead and former head chef at River Cottage Tim Maddams on the second day.