MORE than 40 independent makers and designers will be showcasing their work at a theatre’s annual Christmas market.

The Makers Market is returning to The Nutshell Theatre, in Kings Walk, on Saturday, December 9 and Sunday, December 10.

A café and bar will be open, along with live music by Hannah Castleman and ENCORE Youth Theatre on Sunday.

Visitors will be able to buy unique handmade products and meet local creatives and learn about crafts such as needlefelt, ceramics, botanical art, glassware, lino prints and wildlife portraits.

The event is free and open 10am-4pm on both days.

Hampshire Chronicle: Last year's marketLast year's market (Image: Harriet Morris)

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Harriet Morris, executive director at The Nutshell, said: “The makers market is an alternative offering by the people who live and work in Winchester. The cathedral market is beautiful but this is proper local businesses.

“The antiques market was a nostalgic thing here which is why we wanted to bring the makers market in.”

Noël Jones, artistic director, said: “It’s about supporting small businesses at this time of year. Everybody is equal and welcome here. We really wanted to celebrate all the wonderful makers and designers in Winchester.”