By Barry Leighton

THE organisers of Malmesbury's Friday market say that it is already proving popular with shoppers following its launch a few weeks ago.

Both local people and visitors to the town have been supporting the venture after Malmesbury residents said in a survey last year that they wanted to see a regular, high quality market in the town centre.

The weekly Friday Artisan & Farmers Market takes place from 9am to 3pm at the Market Cross, just up the Abbey Steps from Station Road where another initiative - two hours free parking - was also recently unveiled.

Selling local produce and locally produced items it replaced another market that was established in the town for 12 years but which closed several months ago after slowly petering out.

Gordon McPherson of the Malmesbury Town Team, which helped launch the market, said: “With Autumn upon us there will be two sizzling all-day BBQs on site along with organic locally grown fruit and vegetables, artisan breads, preserves, cheeses, pies and sweet treats.

“There is also super selection of crafts and wares such as hand-crafted stationery, wood products and handmade soaps.”

*Anyone interested in running a stall or finding out more should contact Jack McLeod, email address: jackmcleod-djs@hotmail.co.uk