There will be a whole host of fun events laid on this weekend as Chester Market celebrates its 50th birthday.

The indoor market site, off Princess Street, has been in its current location for half a century – opening in July 1967 when Harold Wilson was prime minister and the Beatles were top of the album charts with Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album.

A lot has changed since, and traders have complained of tough times since the closure of the old bus station outside the market in June, with footfall down as a result.

But this Saturday will be all about promoting what is good about Chester’s indoor market and shoppers are being encouraged to call in and help mark the half-century celebrations.

Events due to run between 11am and 3pm include:

l Live performances by the band Nostalgia singing the hits of the 60s.

l A chance to win £50 to spend in the market.

A free children’s treasure hunt.

l Tombola with top prizes including market vouchers (all proceeds will go to the Alzheimer’s Society).

l A live cooking demonstration with top chef Stuart Fenney from NiceBites (recipe to take away after the session).

l Historic Chester Market photos on display.

l A free balloon for all children.

Other celebrations will include the judging of a birthday card competition by Cllr Bob Rudd.

The competition invited students of all ages to create a birthday card for the market.

The winning design will be printed on the market’s new reusable bag, with the winner also receiving Storyhouse tickets and a market goodie bag.