The first Christmas market in Dublin is proving popular, increasing footfall in the city centre by 10%. Some 340,000 people visited it during its first 15 days, according to the group DublinTown.

All 433 people surveyed at the market on St Stephen's Green last week say it is good for the city, with 99% saying they would like it to return in 2015.

71% say it encouraged them to shop elsewhere in Dublin city centre, while 84% say they will visit the market again before it closes.

The market is made up of 68 trade concessions located in wooden chalets along the exterior of St Stephen's Green Park, between Grafton Street and Merrion Row.

Twenty one of the concessions are food related, while the remainder offer a selection of Irish made handcrafted items.

Commenting on the success of the market, Richard Guiney - chief executive of DublinTown - said: "It's gratifying to see the success of the Dublin at Christmas market."

"The public have really warmed to it and are making it their own. The creation of the market was in direct response to requests by members of the public. Bringing the market together has been a real team effort involving the business community, the OPW, Dublin City Council and the gardaí."

"Now that the concept has shown it can work, we can consider how it can be developed and promoted to provide the best possible Christmas experience for the people of Dublin and our visitors," he added.

The Stephen's Green market runs until December 22nd.