MORE than 600 residents flocked to a new farmers’ and craft market, as small businesses enjoyed more trade.
The Ongar Town Forum’s event was a big hit in the community as market traders reported bumper sales with some selling out while the market resulted in a noticeable increase in the number of people visiting businesses in the High Street.
Ongar Town Forum wants businesses to get involved with future markets and make the most from the additional footfall that the first market attracted.
Some traders who had only booked for the first market have now confirmed they will be at the next two - in the Pleasance car park, next to the library, on Sunday, September 5, and Sunday, October 3 from 10am until 2pm.
Market co-ordinator and town councillor Derek Birch said: “The cake stall sold out, the two gin stalls were running very low on stock and some stalls which only brought along limited stock and range intend to bring more and extended ranges next time.
“The town was very busy and all the cafés did well as a result of the market. Some had queues and so we achieved our aim which was to bring shoppers to the High Street.”
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