Farmers’ Market in Hailsham to Reopen Soon

Hailsham Farmers’ Market, which has been operating for over 20 years will be reopening on Saturday 11th July, more than three months after closing in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

The Covid-19 outbreak meant that visits to the farmers’ market, which operates from 9am-12.30pm on the second Saturday of each month, had to be cancelled due to the introduction of strict social distancing measures.

But as the country takes further steps on the route-map out of lockdown, markets up and down the country have already opened or are making plans to reopen so they can once again showcase local food, craftwork, gifts and other items.

“Hailsham is historically a market town so I am delighted to see this important part of our heritage return,” said Deputy Town Clerk & Business Enterprise Manager, Mickey Caira.

“Safety will still be of crucial importance so all market stalls must be Covid-secure and signs will be put in place on-site from July, reminding people to continue social distancing and to follow the guidance. The Farmers’s Market will be issuing advice on how to shop safely at the market but I urge residents and visitors to also do their part to keep each other safe.”

“Undeniably, economic recovery and growth will be a significant challenge for all businesses but they will be backed by us every step of the way,” added Mr Caira.

Hailsham Farmers’ Market organiser Ben Pratt commented: “We have worked hard to bring back the farmers’ market for 11th July, and have taken steps to ensure that, once reopened to the public, the market will be safe for both shoppers and traders, and operate within the guidelines suggested by government agencies.”

The Farmers’ Market will have a spacious new layout, with social distancing barriers in place where required. Stallholders will also be sanitising their stalls and tables.

Hailsham Town Council is currently liaising with local authorities and managing agents regarding the reopening of Hailsham Street Market which, until the closure in late March due to the pandemic, operated in Vicarage Field every Saturday from 8.30am-1.30pm. Proper provisions and meticulous social distancing measures need to be put in place to manage the public, plans that work with other shops on the site who also need space for social distancing.

The Town Council will update the public on the reopening of the street market on its website and social media pages and via the local media in due course.