Strong Turnout for Latest Trial Market in Blackman’s Yard

The Town Council’s recent street market trial, held last Friday (10 April), drew a solid crowd and featured an impressive variety of independent traders.

Following the success of the first trial event in March, the second market once again received enthusiastic support from stallholders, helping to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere throughout the morning. Visitors were able to browse an eclectic mix of goods, including handmade crafts, artisan food, skincare products, home decor, jewellery, personalised gifts and unique items such as fossils, gemstones and 3D gaming miniatures.

The trial markets are taking place on selected Fridays at Blackman’s Yard, situated behind the Town Council offices on Market Street. Additional dates have been confirmed for the spring period: 24 April, 8 May and 22 May. These events aim to give residents regular opportunities to shop locally and support small, independent businesses.

The initiative forms part of an ongoing assessment to determine whether Blackman’s Yard could become a permanent home for the town’s market, as well as to evaluate the viability of operating the market on Fridays. This follows a previous trial phase which concluded last October, during which visitor numbers, trader feedback and community engagement were carefully reviewed.

The market, which was previously held on Saturdays at Vicarage Field, moved to Blackman’s Yard last summer. As a Council-owned site, the new location provides greater flexibility and fewer restrictions, enabling traders to offer a wider range of products.

Karen Giddings, Corporate Services Manager, said the Council has been encouraged by the response so far: “We’re very pleased with the level of interest from traders and the number of visitors who attended the latest market. It was a lively and enjoyable event that brought a great atmosphere to Blackman’s Yard. We’d encourage residents to come along to the next market on 24 April and continue supporting our independent traders.”

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Communities Committee, added: “It’s fantastic to see the market continuing to grow in popularity, with such a wide variety of stalls attracting people into the town. Supporting local traders is incredibly important, and these trials are a great way to explore how we can create a thriving, sustainable market for the future.”

Karen Giddings added: “The earlier trial gave us valuable insight into how the space functions as a market venue. This current phase allows us to build on that knowledge, gather further feedback and help shape decisions about the market’s future.”