THEY used to invade on bicycles with strings of onions hanging from the handlebars.

But when a taste of France came to Eastleigh town centre's Leigh Road precinct, there were onions, shallots and garlic by the lorry load.

More than 20 stallholders from Norm-andy brought a wide selection of French fare to an outdoor market and Philippe Monnier was soon doing brisk business by knowing his onions.

The visit by the Gallic traders also delighted Ann Arnold, pictured, of Bishopstoke, who said she thought it was a good idea to bring a French market to the town centre.

She explained: "I like French food and it is nice to get a variety. It really is a nice atmosphere too and all the traders are so friendly."

Eastleigh resident Shirley Simmons also thought the French market was a nice idea.

After purchasing some garlic she said: "I've been to the hairdresser but popped down to see what it was like."

Besides onions, there was bread and patisserie, cheese and even wild boar sausages on offer along with leather goods, basketwork, jewellery and perfume from Paris.

The French traders also visited Hamble and Botley over the weekend as part of the Hamble Valley Food and Drink Festival.