A VILLAGE hosted its final farmers' market of the season yesterday with organisers already looking ahead to similar events next year.

Monthly markets were reintroduced to the main streets of Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham, in April after an absence of more than 60 years.

They have been such a success - increasing visitor numbers to Upper Teesdale and boosting the local economy - that they are to continue.

Lucy Jenkins, manager of Middleton Plus Development Trust, which runs the markets, said: "Lots of people from outside of the area have visited, which has been great for tourism and local businesses.

"Local producers, not just of food but crafts and other stallholders, have really benefited and shops, cafes and other traders have certainly seen customer numbers rise.

"We've tried to make each market an event, not just for shopping, but with entertainment and activities which locals and visitors alike have enjoyed."

For yesterday's final market of the season, a 1948 classic coach was used for a park-and- ride service and there were performances by The Durham Rams Sword and Morris Men and the Good Company recorder consort.

Next year's events will run from April to September and details will be available on the website www.teesdalefarmersmarkets.co.uk