Hundreds flock to Walsall's first night market
Hundreds of shoppers flocked to Walsall's first-ever night market, which was today declared a resounding success.
The town centre was last night bustling with shoppers as sounds and smells from exotic food stands filled the air and crowds scoured more than 55 stalls set up around The Bridge and along Park Street. Live singers provided entertainment while there was a lantern-making workshop for children and cocktail masterclass for adults.
Traders and customers called for regular repeats.
Among the visitors were Chris, Amy and Charlotte Lane, aged two, who picked up some fresh bread from a stall manned by staff from Walsall-based bakery Slow Loaf. Teacher Mrs Lane, aged 31, said: "It's a fantastic idea, something completely new for Walsall."
Amy Burnett, 29, brought her two-year-old daughter Dita all the way from Warwick while her friend Jody Grigg, 31, came from Coventry. Mrs Burnett said: "There are a lot of traders and a really good mix of stuff."
Ann Fulford, 57, and Jane Sutherland, 60, reported steady business at their festive-themed pitch.
Carl Mitchell, who runs Bonce Salons in Bradford Street was part of the town centre management team which organised the market. He said: "I'm really pleased. Look at all these people." He said it should be repeated.
