LOCAL food or craft producers are being urged to try their hand as a stallholder at Malton’s regular Saturday market.

The Fitzwilliam Malton Estate, who have been running the market since 2009, have transferred it to Malton and Norton’s Community Interest Company (CIC), gifting the equipment, stalls and signs to the CIC and allowing the use of the Market Place free of charge.

The CIC, who took over the running of the Saturday market on October 1, has a number of plans and wants to see it develop as a real community asset.

As well as maintaining the long-standing relationship with many of its stallholders who trade in Malton each weekend, they also want to involve new stallholders to bring something different to the market, help it expand and increase the range of locally made goods for sale.

Dave Roberts, manager of Malton Market, said stall rates would stay the same at £15 per week.

“My hope is that traders and customers will be encouraged by the knowledge that the market is run by the CIC," he said.

"This makes it a great way for local producers and new start-ups to try out a market stall without committing to an annual contract and we are keen to support them getting started.”

Roddy Bushell, Estate manager, said: “These markets exist for local producers and retailers to find customers and as an attraction for residents and visitors alike. If the markets grow, the CIC will be able to invest the income generated in other community projects.

"The Saturday market could be a great community market and I’d encourage anyone interested in running a stall to get in touch with Dave.”

For more information, go to maltonmarket.co.uk