A FESTIVE farmers' market and lantern procession will launch a community cam-paign to raise cash for the revamp of Clitheroe Castle.

And shoppers in Darwen and Blackburn can join in the fun thanks to a Mince Pie Express train that will transport them to the event.

From 10am to 3pm next Sunday, Clitheroe Farmers' Market will host a feast of festive fare from producers throughout the North West.

There will also be musical entertainment from St Augustine's RC High School Drum Band from Billington and Clitheroe swing guitarist Peter Reilly.

The Mayor of Ribble Valley Coun Mary Robinson and Mayor of Clitheroe Coun Allan Knox will officially launch the "Keepers of the Castle Campaign" at the event.

The campaign aims to raise £500,000 in public and private sponsorship to top off £2.5million in Lottery cash for the Castle's revamp.

After the market, hundreds of children equipped with lanterns will make their way to Clitheroe Castle, where a huge labyrinth will be projected in light on the castle's bowling green.

Ribble Valley Council's tourism and arts officer, Rebecca Kay, said: "The festive farmers' market will be a great event and there will be lots of fabulous produce for sale.

"The lantern procession and light labyrinth also promise to be truly spectacular.

"I hope East Lancashire residents will turn out in force for what promises to be a fabulous day."

The Mince Pie Express is being run by transport campaign group Ribble Valley Rail.

The special train will leave Darwen Railway Station at 11.38am, calling at Blackburn, Wilpshire, Langho and Whalley, before arriving in Clitheroe at 12.10pm.

A second train will leave Darwen at 14.38pm and arrive in Clitheroe at 3.10pm in time for the lantern procession.

Shops in the town will also be opening.