FORTY of the region’s top designers and makers have been specially selected to take part in a Christmas pop up of the Little Northern Contemporary Craft Fair at Altrincham Town Hall on Sunday, December 4.

From unique jewellery and handcrafted leather bags to homewares and statement pieces, visitors can shop for one-off Christmas gifts direct from the artists and makers.

The Little Northern Contemporary Craft Fair comes from the team behind the award-winning Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) which attracts over 6,000 visitors from all over the UK and takes place annually in October at Old Granada Studios in Manchester.

The organisers, Angela Mann and Ann-Marie Franey launched Great Northern Events, a not-for-profit company, eight years ago with the aim of raising the profile of contemporary craft and design and giving designers and makers in the region, a platform to showcase their work.

“The Little Northern has proved a small but perfectly formed spin off of the GNCCF attracting people from all over Cheshire and Greater Manchester. The event replicates the standard of the GNCCF and features northern artists who have all been selected for their excellence. It’s directly opposite Altrincham Market so visitors can visit the town and do their Christmas shopping at both, supporting independent makers in the process,” says Ann-Marie Franey.

“The Little Northern offers an enjoyable and relaxed shopping experience away from the frenetic high street. It is all about finding something you love and loving what you find. Buying direct from the maker you learn about the story and skills behind the work which makes it more special,” adds Angela Mann.