Four new markets heading to Hednesford in 2017

Stalls will be set up in Market Street on key dates next year to maximise their appeal.

They will be held on Saturday February 11 – in the run-up to Valentine's Day – Saturday April 29 – ahead of Staffordshire Day 48 hours later – Saturday August 12 – for the Summer Festival – and Saturday December 2 after the town's Christmas lights are switched on.

Each market, which will be run by markets operator Sketts, will be themed.

District Councillor Paul Woodhead, who represents Hednesford South, said there hadn't been a regular market in the town for more than 10 years.

He said: "Residents and traders have long championed the idea of bringing a market back to Market Street, as a way of attracting new shoppers to the area and to provide a boost to the town's economy.

"So far, dates have been set for four markets, set around key events on the Hednesford calendar.

"They will be themed, and offer a chance to showcase the excellent range of produce available from around the locality, from fresh seasonal farmers' goods to unique arts and crafts, along with street food and some speciality goods."

He added: "The artisan market will build on the vitality, which is returning to the town. Part of the vision is to attract visitors and residents alike, and establishing these seasonal events will bring a welcome boost to the local economy.

"This is something our entire community has been seeking for quite some time, and we hope that everyone will put these dates in their diaries and come along, helping to make the markets a success, and a fixture in the town for many years to come."

Russell Dean, operations manager at Sketts, said: "There's a great community spirit in the area and with the backing of the local groups I am sure each event will be successful and a benefit to the whole town."

The markets have been welcomed by retailers in the town, such as Stef Cunningham, who runs Kitchen Cupboard on Market Street and is chair of the Hednesford Traders Association.

She said: "This is just the addition we need for our town, and I am sure it will bring a buzz to Market Street for the benefit of shoppers and traders, as well as bringing more visitors from the town and further afield in to our community."