OLD Town could boast its own monthly farmers' market by the autumn thanks to the success of a similar scheme in Swindon town centre.

The first farmers' market was held in Wharf Green last month.

Plans have been revealed to double the number of stall holders, after the first event received a tremendous response from farmers, customers and other town centre traders.

Although the idea is very much in its infancy, the hope is to try and repeat this success in Old Town.

The issue was raised during a discussion between Swindon Town Centre Management consultant Richard Sharpe and Richard Deacon, the chairman of the Old Town Business and Professional Association (OTBA).

Mr Sharpe said: I would stress this is very much in its infancy but from the discussion I had, the reaction was quite favourable.

The possibility of establishing an Old Town event comes on the eve of the second town centre farmers' market, due to take place on Thursday, July 6.

At present, there is room for 12 stallholders but the hope is to increase this to about 24.

The market will be held once a month but this could be increased to twice a month in the not too distant future, if it continues to grow.

By organising such a market, Swindon is following in the footsteps of smaller towns like Wootton Bassett and Calne, inviting farmers from the surrounding area to sell produce they have grown themselves.