LOCAL businesses can rejoice as the Taunton Independent Market looks to provide free trading space for Somerset businesses.

The Taunton Independent Market has been a huge success for Taunton ever since it first started up back in March 2020, bringing thousands of visitors to Taunton.

Situated in Castle Green, the market is held on the second Sunday and last Saturday of every month from March to December.

A great day out for anyone who comes to Somerset, admission is free for all visitors.

The market features around 75 stalls selling food, drink, crafts, homewares, beauty, and fashion from local, artisan traders. The market also has live music and free parking at council-owned car parks.

If you or anyone you know would be interested in being a part of the next Taunton Independent Market, then you can get in touch via the Taunton Independent Market Facebook page or drop the organisers an email at: tauntonindependentmarket@gmail.com.

Speaking ahead of the next Taunton Independent Market, which will be held on October 26, an organiser of the market said: "Since the Taunton Independent Market launched way back in March 2020 it has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the most popular destination markets in the South West and attracting over 10,000 visitors to the town centre each month.

"Our regular twice-monthly markets on Castle Green showcase the South West’s best artisan traders of food and drink, crafts, gifts, homewares, beauty, fashion, and more.

"The addition of our Saturday markets incorporates the already well-established GoCreate arts market, and they are as you know already proving popular.

"Over the past 5 years, we have been committed to upholding community values and we continue working closely with many local charity and community interest companies each month.

"However, we are also committed to supporting our bricks-and-mortar town centre businesses and bringing in extra footfall and additional spending to benefit the whole of the town centre.

"We would therefore welcome open discussion with any Taunton town business who want to work more collaboratively.

"Here are a few ideas that I have thought of, off the top of my head, including us offering FREE trading spaces to those who want to have a presence at the markets and/or forming some sort of collective stalls for you at our markets.

"Or maybe you could come along to the markets to give out leaflets and/or to give tasters of your products.

"Let’s work together.

"I know times are tough and it isn’t an easy ride for any small businesses right now, so I really want to work with you on making the increased footfall and the buzz in town on market days work for us all.

"I am always available at the end of the phone for a chat, or I am happy to pop in for a cuppa to discuss ways in which we can work more closely together openly and collaboratively, not only for the good of our businesses but also for keeping our lovely town centre vibrant.

"I look forward to hearing from you soon."