METROLINK is encouraging people to start their Christmas shopping early this year with a travel offer designed to drive festive footfall to Altrincham.

Over the weekend of November 24 and 25, two adults can travel together for the price of one and up to three children can travel completely free of charge when travelling with a full fare paying adult.

For full details on the travel offer and to download a free travel voucher shoppers should visit metrolink.co.uk/Christmas. interesting, lively and festive place to shop.

The town has a host opf attractions on November 24. Children will enjoy free lantern making in the Stamford Quarter from 2pm-4pm followed by a magical lantern parade through the town centre.

With his reindeers enjoying a rest before their busy season, Santa will be travelling to the town centre by Metrolink and then boarding a 'Santa Special' Stagecoach bus to Altrincham Market where he will arrive at 4pm.

For the first time, the town has its own Twilight Markets with bar and live music, every Thursday to December 20.

These are complemented by the ‘Taste of Christmas’ Food Festival and a series of free local events including the much anticipated Shopping Saunters. To ensure everyone is in the Christmas spirit, there will be choirs and carols too.

Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink director, Philip Purdy, said: “Our regional centres offer range, quality and great service and we hope that our buy one get one free offer encourages more people to head to Altrincham for a spot of shopping or to enjoy a meal this Christmas.”

Cllr Matt Colledge, chairman of Altrincham Forward and Leader of Trafford Council said: “We’ve really worked hard to provide a great offer for visitors to Altrincham this Christmas and are delighted that Metrolink is supporting us with this great two for one travel offer. We hope it attracts old customers back to Altrincham and plenty of new customers to come and see what the town is all about. Shopping in Altrincham is festive and fun, and just a tram ride away.”

*For full details on the travel offer and to download a free travel voucher visit metrolink.co.uk/Christmas. Terms and conditions apply.