A TUESDAY outdoor market is launched in Richmond next week.

The town council agreed to hold the extra weekly event as part of its celebrations to mark the 850th anniversary of the town's first royal charter, granted in 1155.

The new market will be held on Tuesday mornings in the same area of the Market Place as the Saturday outdoor market.

It is hoped that it will continue to September, when the anniversary celebrations culminate and its success and future will be reviewed.

Coun Russell Lord, the mayor and clerk to the market, said: "Richmond is by nature a market town and this year we are celebrating the 850th anniversary of our first royal charter.

"The new market represents a further development of the market activities within the town and gives a clear indication that traditional markets are still very popular with residents and visitors alike.

"Richmond is still, despite the many attacks it is currently under, the main visitor centre for the whole of Richmondshire and acts as a hub for the economic well-being of the whole shire."

Dr Peter Clarke, town clerk, said: "Richmond's markets are flourishing and some traders were willing to support an extra market during the anniversary year. We will have a trial period to see what sort of support we get."

The town also has indoor markets from Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Traders interested in stalls should contact Dr Clarke at the town hall, tel 01748 850808.