Aberdeen recently hosted a three day International Market which proved to be a favourite venue for all. The Castlegate hosted the Market on Friday 11 August before traders moved to their usual weekend spot on Union Street for Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th. Traders from at least five European countries joined stallholders from across the UK to offer a wide range of foods and goods throughout the three-day event which drew huge crowds into the heart of the city. Among the stalls were both newcomers and favourites selling delicious foods including fresh French fruit and vegetables, French, Dutch, Scottish and English cheeses, hams from Spain, biscuits from Brittany, and a variety of French breads together with an array of fine textiles, accessories, arts and crafts.

Traders from Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain, included a popular stall selling lavender soaps and other goods from Provence and Dick the Flying Dutchman, well-known for his colourful displays of plants. The market which was organised by Paris-based Groupe Géraud, opened from 9am-6pm on all three days. The group is Europe's largest street market operator and was earlier this year awarded a new two-year contract to run the event on behalf of Aberdeen City Council.

Andrew Burnett, Chief Executive of Géraud UK, said: "Our traders always receive a great welcome in Aberdeen and have voted it the best of our markets in the UK and that's reflected in their enthusiasm for taking part. Our objective is to create colour and vibrancy at our markets, and Aberdeen certainly achieves that, with the opportunities to sample different produce adding to the appeal. The International Markets in Aberdeen are now so popular and successful that we are working with Aberdeen City Council to introduce both a German Fish Festival and a German Christmas Market both firsts for the UK later this year.''

City Centre Manager Tom Moore, said: "Many of the traders who come from the Continent are now old friends and sought out by the public. We'll also be welcoming a number of newcomers to Aberdeen, and they'll be adding to the variety of goods on offer."