New markets ranging from street food to Christmas markets will be coming to locations across County Durham.

Durham County Council has procured specialist social enterprise Baccanalia to organise bespoke markets at 11 centres across the county.

Ranging from craft markets, street food, farmers’ markets, vintage fayres and Christmas markets, the events will run across the calendar year and build on previous events which have been held in Bishop Auckland.

The markets will be coming to Chester-le-Street, Spennymoor, Consett, Stanley, Crook, Peterlee, Newton Aycliffe, Seaham, Bishop Auckland, Barnard Castle and Durham City.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We are delighted to be making this exciting announcement for our communities right across the county. Specialist markets are enjoyed by many people and we are pleased to be able to bring these events across so much of the county.

“The primary objective of this contract is to offer a bespoke specialist market to each of the 11 places with the aim of bringing additional footfall which will benefit communities, visitors and the economy in each local area.”

Thomas Wales, director of Baccanalia, said: "We're absolutely delighted to win this contract from Durham County Council and feel it underscores Baccanalia's commitment to cultural engagement.

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"These events will boost local economies offering a platform to champion local produce and foster a sense of unity among residents. We aim to focus on supporting local businesses and artisans, nurture community spirit and showcase the best of what County Durham has to offer."

The contract has been funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will run until March 2025.

Further information on the programme of markets for each town will be shared soon.