THE centre of Coleford was transformed into a French town on Sunday, with Le Marche de France bringing the authentic tastes of Normandy and produce and crafts from futher afield.

A huge range of French cheeses drew appreciative audiences of fans and a roaring trade followed, while bread and pastries provided a popular counter-attraction. Much of the produce offered was actually baked on-site.

Gourmets could further sample and buy preserves, patés, ham, sausages, olives, garlic and a wide range of fruit and veg, while householders could purchase objects as diverse as pretty tablecloths, woven shopping baskets and scented soap from Marseilles.

Anyone with a sweet tooth could watch pralines and sugar almonds being made and early Christmas shoppers were much in evidence!

The genuine taste of France with its colourful stalls and accented market cries was a big attraction in the town for a not-so-impressive autumn day and the chances are the stallholders will plan more future visits.