On Saturday 23 April 2022, Reigate’s historic road tunnel was transformed into a bustling St George’s Day Market. Organised by Love Reigate, the community event was the ideal opportunity to bring local business, charities and families together. 

 

A series of stalls lined one side of the tunnel which showcased Reigate’s small businesses and local musicians provided live entertainment throughout the day. From street food to facepainting and local charities to cookie dough, the Love Reigate Market was the perfect place to show-off some of what Reigate has to offer. It was great to see Reigate thriving with families discovering local artwork and charity projects, particularly after the impact the pandemic has had on small businesses nationwide over the last two years.

 

Love Reigate was founded by Julian Rowlands in 2020 as a way of supporting these Reigate-based local businesses through membership and gift vouchers to Reigate shoppers. He explained the idea behind the St George’s Day Market: 

 

"The Love Reigate market is all about showcasing some of the amazing local independent businesses we have on our doorstep in the hope of encouraging those who live in the area to support local which in turn helps to keep money in the local economy. As Love Reigate also supports charity, it was also an opportunity for us to help promote the great work our charity partner Stripey Stork does in the local area."

 

One of the stall holders at the market was local business co-founder, Morgan Arnell from Crumbs Brewing. He said, "Being part of Love Reigate is a great way to support local businesses and encourage local people to support local businesses. The Love Reigate Market is fantastic as people can come out and have fun, especially after the last two years." 

 

With live music, street food and an array of shopping opportunities, there was certainly plenty of fun to be had and the strong turn-out proved Reigate’s willingness to show their support and shop small. There was also an opportunity to think beyond the local community and donate to support Ukraine at one of the stalls. 

 

Julian summed up the day afterwards: "I'm really happy with how the day went - there was a constant stream of visitors coming to browse the stalls and enjoy the live local musicians and local food and drink stalls too. There was a lovely buzz about the town and lots of locals commented on how much they enjoyed the day."

 

Even though events like these had to take a backseat during the pandemic, it's great to see that community spirit is still alive and well in Reigate.