A FARMERS' market could become a regular feature in Stockton town centre following a trial run this week.

Stockton Council invited the Northumbria Larder Farmers' Market to join its regular Wednesday market as part of an initiative to attract more people into the town to shop.

The move came after the council stopped the farmers' market arranged by Wellington Square last month.

Following discussions between the council and the Wellington Square Development Co, it was decided that the monthly farmers' market, if successful, could become a regular town centre feature without affecting existing trade.

Geraint Williams, Stockton town centre manager, said: "Our market is full, which is why it has been agreed that our partners in Wellington Square will host the farmers' market.

"But the council has the experience at operating markets and therefore, in order to protect the public and also the market traders, it is important that we should use our expertise to run both markets."

It is expected that the new market will be held every four weeks and run from 9am to 4pm.

On Wednesday, there were 11 stalls offering a variety of locally-produced goods with everything from apple juice to cheese, and savoury pies to fruit cakes.

Stockton markets manager, Colin Watson, added: "We have been assured that the market is not going to be in competition with any of the market traders."