Council launches schemes to support market traders

Banbury Charter Market takes place every Thursday and Saturday

A local authority has launched two initiatives to support market traders for the remainder of winter.

The first scheme will see Cherwell District Council (CDC) not charging pitch fees at the Banbury Charter Market.

And secondly, funding will be used to provide discounted rents to community groups, charities and traders at markets in Bicester and Kidlington.

The special offers begin on Saturday, and will run until the end of March.

Emma Gould, manager of Bicester's Friday Market, said she was "delighted" to see the initiatives.

"They provide a much-needed boost for both existing and new traders, as well as the wider community," she said.

"Market trading can be unpredictable, so any assistance is greatly appreciated, especially as we work to bring more people into our centres."

Lesley McLean, CDC's deputy leader, added that the region's markets were a "cornerstone" of its "identity and heritage".

"These special offers provide essential support for our local small businesses during the quieter winter months and encourage new businesses to become part of the thriving market community," he said.

The schemes have been funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.