Hailsham Town Council is set to welcome residents and visitors to the third event in its Friday market trial programme, taking place at Blackman’s Yard this Friday [24 April], from 9am to 1pm.
Following the success of the recent markets held on 20 March and 10 April, which attracted strong footfall and positive feedback from both traders and shoppers, the upcoming event promises an even more vibrant and varied marketplace. Growing interest from stallholders has enabled the Council to expand the range of goods available, creating a lively and inclusive shopping experience in the heart of the town.
Visitors can expect an eclectic mix of stalls featuring handmade crafts, artisan food and drink, skincare and cosmetics, home decor, jewellery, gifts and more. The market continues to showcase the creativity and enterprise of independent traders, while also providing a platform for local community organisations to engage with the public.
Blackman’s Yard, located behind the Town Council offices in Market Street, is currently hosting the trial series. Additional market dates are scheduled for 8 May and 22 May as part of the ongoing pilot initiative.
The trial is designed to evaluate the long-term viability of establishing Blackman’s Yard as a permanent home for Hailsham’s market, as well as assessing the demand for a regular Friday trading day. It follows a previous trial period held last autumn, during which detailed analysis of visitor numbers and trader feedback informed the Council’s next steps.
Since relocating from its former Saturday location at Vicarage Field last summer, the market has benefited from the flexibility offered by Blackman’s Yard, a Town Council-owned space. The site allows for improved layout, accessibility and the opportunity to accommodate a broader range of traders, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
A strong and diverse line-up of stallholders has been confirmed for this Friday’s market, including:
Local organisations including Seaside Community Hub will also be in attendance, offering information and opportunities to connect with community initiatives.
Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Communities Committee, said: “The response to our first two Friday market trials was extremely encouraging and demonstrated just how much potential there is for a thriving, regular market in this location. It created a fantastic atmosphere and brought people together in a positive and engaging way.”
“We are excited to build on that success this week, with an even broader selection of stalls. I would encourage residents to come along, support our traders and enjoy everything the market has to offer.”
Karen Giddings, Corporate Services Manager, added: “We were delighted with the turnout and feedback from our first markets held in March and early April. It has been a strong start and the trial events to date have highlighted the appetite for a well-organised, high-quality market in Hailsham.”
“We look forward to welcoming visitors again this Friday and hope to see the community continue to support this initiative as the trial progresses.”
Hailsham Town Council warmly invites residents and visitors to attend, browse the wide range of stalls and support local businesses and community groups. The Friday market trial represents an important step in shaping the future of the town’s market offer and strengthening the local economy.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk