Douglas Market Hall traders are continuing to promote Manx produce and traditions with a two-day celebration of Hop tu Naa. On Friday October 29 there will be a workshop in the market hall from 12noon to 3pm where Hop tu Naa kits along with pumpkins and turnips will be on sale and children can learn how to create their own lanterns for the big night on October 31. Then on Saturday October 30 between 12noon and 3pm there is to be a fancy dress competition for the best dressed boy and girl and another for the best pumpkin or turnip lantern, in each case with prizes awarded in two age categories, three to six and seven to 12. Event co-ordinator and Douglas Market Hall trader Chris Carr said: ‘2010 is proving to be the year the market hall retakes its place at the heart of the trading community in Douglas. The overwhelming success of the outdoor summer market was the starting point for the market’s revival. Hop tu Naa is one of the few remaining Celtic festivals that’s still celebrated widely in the Island so we’re determined to capture the spirit of the tradition by holding this two-day family event - a first for Douglas Market Hall. Also, thanks to the generosity of event sponsors Fancie That in Nelson Street, Douglas, the market will be suitably - and spookily - decorated for the occasion.’ Douglas Development Partnership is one of the organisations supporting the event. Development manager Chris Pycroft said: ‘The regeneration of the North Quay is proving to be the catalyst inspiring a whole range of exciting new projects and ventures and attracting new business to the area. Against this background the Partnership is pleased to support this new wave of initiatives being driven by Chris Carr and his fellow traders whose efforts have made a tremendous contribution to putting Douglas Market Hall and the North Quay firmly on the leisure and entertainment map.’ For more information contact Chris Carr, 365880, chistophercarr06@aol.com Ends