Trucks began delivering the first batch of the wooden planks that will make up the continental timber huts earlier this week.

Work will now continue over the weekend to make sure the cabins are all ready for traders to set up stalls before the grand opening, on Tuesday.

The market will then be open until 9pm seven days a week in the lead-up to Christmas.

And council bosses say they are hoping the array of German foods and gifts will attract shoppers from across the country to Northampton, giving the local economy a Christmas boost.

Councillor Paul Varnsverry, who has helped organise the event, said visiting Northampton this Christmas would be "really special" for shoppers.

He said: "Visiting Northampton this Christmas will be an exceptional opportunity for people to buy diverse and interesting presents.

"It will also provide a chance to soak up a really special holiday atmosphere.

"It was very important for the borough council to give the people of Northampton something extraordinary in what has been a tough year for many."

Once up and running the market will feature traditional German stalls selling a mixture of gifts and crafts for Christmas shoppers.

The stalls will sell an array of traditional German food and drink, including schnitzel, German beer, Bratwurst and continental hams.

The market has already enjoyed successful stints in large cities across the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester and Nottingham.

Kurt Stroscher, from the German market, added: "I'm delighted to have the opportunity to bring an authentic German Christmas market to Northampton and am looking forward to sharing our German Christmas traditions with local people.

"German and English Christmas customs are different, but both are bound to be an exciting experience, bringing a whole new dimension to the Christmas offer and creating a wonderful atmosphere."

The market will open on Tuesday, November 24 and will be in Market Square until Sunday, 20 December.