The arrival of a farmers' market at a County Durham town has been hailed as 'brilliant' as plans are already in place to bring back the farmers' market in the coming months.

Middle Street in Consett saw vendors and members of the public descend on Saturday between 10am and 3pm for a new farmers' market.

The market was organised by culture company BACCANALIA and money from the shared prosperity fund, as the regular Saturday market gave way for a special edition with additional stalls.

Cllr Kathryn Rooney was one of the organisers of the event. She told The Northern Echo: "Local shops told me what a brilliant day they had with increased sales, the existing traders on the market who have traded there for years said what a good day they had.

"I knew I had to keep this going, our town centre was alive with a fabulous community spirit that unfortunately has been missing for years. 

"Lots commented how emotional they were seeing Consett bustling and so many people turning out." 

(Image: Kathryn Rooney)

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The next community farmers' market in Consett is set to take place in Middle Street on October 12 from 10am-3pm.

A Christmas market, complete with a visit from Santa and Mrs Claus, has been organised for November 30, again 10am-3pm.

These markets are set to feature a variety of food vans, and stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, jams, crafts, and gifts.

Members of the public flocked to social media to voice their praise for the event.

One commenter, Jill Cowan, said: "It was brilliant seeing Consett so busy! The stalls were great," while Anne Wilkinson hailed the market as the "best day in Consett for ages."

A local businessowner, Rachael Simpson, said: "We had an amazing day. Also brought a lot of people into our shop that had never been in before."

Jackie Tomlinson took to Facebook group The Consett Chatterbox to say: "How lovely to see Consett Front Street busy with the Farmers Market. Hope the traders do well and want to come back."