A town market has gone from strength to strength thanks to an increase in traders, as business leaders hope to attract visitors and stallholders from further afield.

The Richmond Business and Tourism Association (ORBTA) has been encouraged by the improvement in the Richmond Saturday markets over the summer, but it wants to continue this trend moving into autumn.

Over the summer, a range of stalls have been continuously attending Richmond market, which has led to products on offer including homemade crafts, plants, food and drink, jewellery and other gifts.

The Pure Yorkshire Honey Stall at Richmond MarketThe Pure Yorkshire Honey Stall at Richmond Market (Image: RICHMOND MARKET)

There was a special market to celebrate Yorkshire Day, which had a large turnout.

Many of the traders are local to Richmond and their presence has reinforced the Business Association's aim of developing a circular economy through its Totally Locally initiative, with the group also reiterating that the market is also open to traders from further afield.

As part of the ongoing drive to promote the market, the Business Association is hoping to spread the word further as the autumn approaches.

Thaer Farhat Catering at Richmond MarketThaer Farhat Catering at Richmond Market (Image: RICHMOND MARKET)

The group says the cost of £10 to run a stall "is very cheap compared to other markets and is a great opportunity for new traders to showcase their products at little cost".

ORBTA recognises that a barrier to having a stall is the cost of a gazebo, and has purchased one for free use by its members, or for a rental of £10 for non-members.

The Business Association in Richmond has also taken over the organisation of this year’s Christmas Fair on December 1.

The range of stall available at Richmond MarketThe range of stall available at Richmond Market (Image: RICHMOND MARKET)

This will include a market but also entertainment, performance, Santa and other activities.

It aims to produce a big community event to celebrate the start of the Christmas celebrations.

Any trader wishing to join can express an interest here by August 27.

ORBTA Chair, Paul Harrison said: "We want to build on the support our community has offered to local businesses by providing an enjoyable Christmas event for all.

"In the past, we have been fortunate to receive funding from the district council, but now that we have moved to a unitary authority, that support has not been forthcoming.

"However, in the spirit of supporting the local economy and to help us achieve our ambition of producing an impressive event, we look to the community to chip in either through sponsorship opportunities or donating here." 

Stalls can be booked by calling 01748 850808 or email enquiries@richmondtowncouncil.org.uk, and the gazebo can be booked by email at info@originalrichmond.co.uk.