TRADERS hope to attract 50,000 shoppers into Weymouth town centre over three weeks by holding a German Christmas market.

Businessman Bill Chapman wants to boost the festive atmosphere by organising the event outside Debenhams in New Bond Street from November 28 to December 18.

Mr Chapman, who has a beach hut selling German snacks to customers on the seafront, lived in Germany for 20 years, since serving with the now defunct 17th/21st Lancers.

He said: "There should be 15 illuminated wooden huts with German traders selling goods from Germany and Austria, like handmade crafts, toys, jewellery and clothing.

"A further five stands will sell traditional food such as cheese, steaks, bratwurst, currywurst, noodles, biscuits and sweets, as well as Glhwein and beer.

"We would also like to accommodate a small carousel if possible."

Mr Chapman said: "Weymouth attracts a lot of people over the summer so I thought this would keep them coming during the winter period as well.

"I am sure that bringing a Christmas market to Weymouth will draw a further 50,000 people to the town.

"The big question is, will this get the support of the local businesses and will they see the advantages to their own winter sales?"

He added: "I am getting a good response working with Weymouth and Portland Borough Council and have had great support from the Town Centre Management Group.

"Let's get families visiting Weymouth to see the wooden stalls all lit up and everyone enjoying the Christmas atmosphere."

German Christmas markets date back to 1434 in Dresden and were held so that people living far away from cities could make a special trip to buy all their festive goods.

In England Christmas markets died out when Cromwell 'banned' Christmas in the 17th century, but were revived in Lincoln during the 1980s.