[dropcap type =”circle”]S[/dropcap]hops and businesses from across the town will come together on Saturday to support the first Deans Court Open Air Market.
In a bid to increase footfall and raise the profile of the area, fellow shop owners Sarah Haydon and Vanessa James decided to organise the event.
Sarah said: “Vanessa and I wanted to try and increase awareness around the town that Deans Court exists. As a new business, she was keen to introduce her products and services to a wider audience. I have been here over four years now and have gradually seen a decline in footfall. Whatever the reason for that, we decided to join forces and hold an open air market. Deans Court is a perfect space for this as it’s pedestrianised.
“We contacted local businesses on Facebook asking if anyone would like a stall and it’s grown from there. So far we have at least 15 traders booked in, selling a range of handmade gifts, keepsakes, candles, cakes, childrens’ books, beauty products and financial services.”
So far the following businesses will be taking part in Saturday’s event:
Cakes by Sian Skinner
Dragonfly Personalised Designs by Lisa and Nicola Henton-Mitchell – personalised keepsakes and gifts
White Wick Candles – handmade candles by Emma White
Handmade by Holchester – handmade homewares and craft kits by Rachel Winchester and Emma Simmonds
Options Beauty & The Boutique – selling scarves, jewellery and other accessories
Seriously Sweet – Sweet treats and gift packs
IMS – mortgage and property lettings/sales
Avon – make up and gifts by Sue Hedges
Usborne Books – children’s book range from 0 to teens
Handmade goodies by Vicky Harvey
Neals Yard Organics by Mog Aiyer
Forever Living by Jennifer Ratcliff
Utility Warehouse with Sarah Sienkiewicz
Handmade gifts by Vikki Hartshorn
Sarah added: “We are really looking forward to seeing how this works, and whether we will be able to run more of these throughout the year.”