‘Hugely successful’ first year for market

With a tantalising abundance of artisan loaves, home-grown fruit and vegetables, locally-reared meats, bespoke gifts, and much more – it’s easy to see why crowds flock to Matlock’s outdoor market every week.

And now, with the market’s one year anniversary later this month, organisers say they are “thrilled to bits” after a “challenging, but hugely successful” first year of trading.

The market – which is held in the award-winning Hall Leys Park every Wednesday – has been extremely popular with traders, residents and tourist alike since it opened.

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Rob Short, chairman of Matlock Town Team, who organise the market, said: “It’s been a hugely rewarding first year. Like any small business, we’ve had our ups and down. But we’re still here, we’re still growing strong, and the market is more popular than ever. So great news.”

From the day the market opened, Rob said they filled it to the initial capacity with traders, all bringing their unique produce to town.

Within months the capacity was extended from 20 to 40 traders – and was again filled straight away.

When asked how the market has benefitted the town, Rob said: “This market, along with our Saturday market, is all about boosting the community and putting Matlock on the map.

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“And it’s a two-way street. For people visiting the market, we encourage them to go and see what else Matlock has to offer, like the antiques shops, cafe’s and restaurants, for instance. But for people shopping in Matlock itself, we encourage them to come and look round the market.

“All traders benefit from these markets. And the consumers have more choice.

“It’s a real positive thing for the town and that is why we are so happy.”

Rob said that organisers are hoping to extend the market even more next year.

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He said: “If something is working well, it pays to stick with the format. But we would like to include more stalls in the future.”

Rob urged people to come along to see the next Saturday market too, which takes place on May 16.

He added that the Town Team are looking for new traders at the Wednesday market.

For more information, or to apply, email [email protected].

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