The Original Richmond Business and Tourism Association, ORBTA, has been encouraged by the improvement in Richmond’s Saturday markets over the summer.
Some of its members have been very active in encouraging traders to come along on a Saturday to participate in the markets, which included a special market to celebrate Yorkshire Day. This has led to a wide range of products on offer, from homemade crafts, plants, food and drink to jewellery and other gifts. Many of the traders are local to Richmond, and this has reinforced ORBTA’s aim of developing a circular economy through its Totally Locally initiative. The market is nevertheless open to traders from further afield. Feedback from locals and tourists alike has been positive.
However, this has only been a starting point, and ORBTA is keen to continue to promote the market as the autumn approaches. The cost of £10 to run a stall is very cheap compared with 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 therefore purchased a gazebo for the free use by its members, or for a rental of £10 for non-members. Stalls can be booked by contacting the Council on 01748 850808 or
enquiries@richmondtowncouncil.org.uk, and the Gazebo can be booked by email at info@originalrichmond.co.uk
ORBTA has also taken over the organisation of this year’s Christmas Fair on 1st December. This will include a market but also entertainment, performances, a visit from Santa and other fun 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 on the website here by 27th August.
Commenting on the event, 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 making a donation via the GoFundMe page here.