KENDAL'S Mediaeval Market is sure to be an eye-catching affair thanks to pupils from Kendal's Stramongate Primary School.

As well as getting the chance to try on some authentic costumes and look at examples of mediaeval manuscripts and illustrations, the youngsters have been helping to produce a large notice that will be displayed in the town to explain some of the day's events and entertainment.

Mediaeval Market committee member Kate Reid thanked the children for their involvement in the popular Spring Bank Holiday event.

"The children's work will be very much appreciated by the many visitors who flock to the Mediaeval Market each year, " she said.

"There are some really imaginative and entertaining performers there and we hope that the children's eye-catching notice will help people get to see them."

l More than 30,000 people are expected to visit Kendal on Monday to take a step back in time as the town becomes a hive of pageantry and colour during the annual Mediaeval Market.

Nearly 100 stalls, manned by crafts people dressed in the traditional attire of the 11th Century, will line the streets while a large contingent of entertainers and strolling players, including Grinnigogs, the Astral Circus, Jerry the Flute and Toadflax the Fool, promise to keep the crowds amused.

Some 21st Century civic dignitaries will be present for the official opening of the market at 10am in the Market Square when King Richard's drunken emissary, Dickie Doodle, will deliver the market charter to the Baron of Kendal.

For youngsters, there will be the opportunity to meet various birds of prey, including Simba the kestrel and George the turkey vulture, when the Corio Raptor Care Centre stages a display in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.

Market promotion co-ordinator John Owen said: "Once again, the market has increased its traders' attendance and this demonstrates its growing popularity as one of the biggest events in the north. It promises to be an exciting day."