New market brings new life to Sutton

Isabella and Zak Carrington and Bobbi Hickling get to grips with some vegetable critters at the new Sutton Market on Saturday.

A Harvest Festival celebration was held to mark the new chapter in the town’s history, which has seen the market recently moved out of the old Market Place and into a more central site on Portland Square.

A whole host of activities and entertainment took place on Saturday, including a ‘vegetable critter’ making workshop for youngsters and street artists to amuse shoppers.

The usual array of food, plants, clothing and crafts were on offer, with all stalls yet again being occupied.

Sophia and Jasmine Wroblewski get flowers from Mr Tall during their visit to Portland Square market on Saturday.

Councillor Glenys Maxwell, chairman of Ashfield District Council, carried out the official opening.

She said that it is brilliant that the market is now a focal point of Sutton and that interest in it has been reignited.

“A lot of traders told me that turnover has doubled or even trebled and I have spoken to a lot of customers who say they are really happy.

“People have said if it continues like this it will be worth coming to again,” she said.

Richard Burley form Rick's Flowers, chats with the chairman of Ashfield District Council, Coun. Glenys Maxwell who officially opened the new facility on Saturday.

“It was a lovely day, very well-attended and I am really happy with the effect that it’s had on our town.”

The market will be open four days a week, with Monday and Wednesday being bargain markets and Friday and Saturday holding a traditional market.