Delight as spectacular crowds flock to town's biggest market

Crowds flocked to the Market Spectacular, as more than 300 stalls from around the country lined the streets.

Allan Draper, treasurer of the National Market Traders' Federation, is overjoyed with the market so far.

He said: "It has been tremendous. There has been an amazing turnout.

"On Friday, I have never in 25 years in the town seen so many people visiting.

"I've been talking to shop holders and they say they have had a good weekend as well, so it's not just the stalls that have benefitted from this."

Predictions of heavy rain never came to fruition, and Mr Draper said that had played a large part in the success of the market.

"We have actually escaped with excellent weather," he said.

"We thought we were doomed, but by the skin of our teeth it has held off and been a good three days."

The big market signified a new beginning for Darlington, after the recent completion of the £7m Pedestrian Heart.

Mr Draper said the Market Spectacular would not have been possible if the town centre had not been redeveloped.

He said: "We couldn't have done it with the old stalls. They just didn't have the appeal.

"The council has invested in these gazebo-style stalls and it has now been proved that it was a wise decision.

"It has definitely put Darlington on the market map, and I hope it will be followed up.

"Without a shadow of a doubt, this weekend has been a great success so far, more than I would ever have anticipated."

The market will remain in town today, before a meeting between traders and the council to determine the future of the event.

Today, as well as Flavours of Europe, an eco market, farmers' market, craft fair and pot fair, there will be a variety of street entertainment.

A Punch and Judy show, street theatre and a comedy double act will perform at various locations around the town centre, between 11am and 3pm.

The regular outdoor and indoor markets will be open as usual.