CHALETS could line the Italian Gardens as a leading Weston business group looks to secure an upmarket Christmas attraction for 2014.

Weston’s Business Improvement District (BID) team is in discussions over bringing a set of authentic European-style chalet stalls to the town centre this year.

It is hoped the change could bring Weston more in line with Christmas markets on offer in nearby cities like Bristol and Bath.

Mulled wine, pies, stollen and bratwurst are all set to be on offer alongside jewellery, paintings and craft offerings.

The group is currently weighing up costs and deciding whether the scheme would be viable.

Last year the group brought a bratwurst stall to Big Lamp Corner, but is looking to expand to a full set of chalets.

The markets would be open from December 11-21 from 10am-7.30pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am-9pm Thursday to Saturday.

A statement from town centre manager Steve Townsend said: “Weston BID is working with the founder of some of the UK’s best christmas markets to look at the opportunity to bring a truly stunning market to Weston this Christmas.

“Taking its inspiration from traditional German Christmas markets, it has the potential to attract thousands of visitors with pretty wooden chalets situated in the Italian Gardens adjacent to the High Street.

“The exhibitors would be hand-picked for their interesting, high quality and unique products, many not available on the high street.”

BID chairman Paul Batts has thrown his weight behind the move, and said: “It’s what we have always wanted to bring to the town.

“We want to promote local businesses and attract traders, but it all depends on the costs.”