Market changes unveiled for Christmas
Improvements to Newcastle’s historic market are being unveiled at a Christmas edition of the Farmers’ Market.
A selection of popular traders – selling fresh, home-made and local produce – will be based on stalls which have been relocated to prime space by the Guildhall.
Five stalls previously situated by the side of the Grade II listed building by Wrights have
now been moved to the opposite side by the Council primarily to create a permanent home for the visiting Farmers’ Market each month.
The scheme, completed ahead of schedule, is the first of many planned changes designed to create a busy and vibrant market for shoppers and traders.
Among the traders on Friday, 20 December – the final Farmers’ Market of the year – is Mike Davies from Punx Puds. Mike, from May Bank, gave up his career in IT to sell his delicious, home-made puddings full-time and normally sells out at the various markets he attends. Traders are also being encouraged to deck their stalls with bells and holly.
Nick Moore, Town Centre Officer, said: “The rejuvenation of the market is our top priority. The Farmers’ Market is very popular with visitors and is a great addition to our general market. Those third Fridays are one of the highlights of the month and this is something we’re very keen to build on. The new location, featuring an easy to use electrical feed for food offerings, attracts greater footfall and will create a buzz around the historic Guildhall. These stalls will be made available to general traders on other market days. The aim is to benefit visitors, shoppers and traders and ultimately help to breathe new life into the town centre market. There is also going to be a General Market on The Stones on 20 December so it promises to be a busy one with a great festive atmosphere. It would be great if everyone showed their support for their hard-working traders this Christmas and beyond.
New traders on the General Market can currently take advantage of a £5 per stall incentive for 16 weeks, a period where they can assess their business success without any obligation to stay. For more information, please contact the market supervisor on 01782 620519.
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