VISITORS to Richmond can shop while they bop thanks to a market trader who has announced he'll be using his musical talents to entertain his customers.

Paul Milsom sells ornamental ships in glass bottles at the town's indoor market.

But from this weekend he'll be taking his saxophone to work with him in the hope of enticing more shoppers to come and browse.

Mr Milson, an accomplished saxophonist who plays in local band Atlantic Soul Messengers, will be joined throughout August by other musicians from local bands.

"This is not an attempt at weekend busking but a serious effort to bring live music to Richmond town centre," he said.

"The Market Hall is the perfect venue. It's an impressive building with atmosphere, good acoustics and a ready-made audience."

Most of the musicians involved will also be playing at the town's annual music festival this summer.

Richmond Live has grown to become a two-day spectacular, being held this year on The Batts on Friday, August 3, and Saturday, August 4.

This year Paul Carrack, former member of Squeeze, Mike and the Mechanics and The Pretenders, tops the bill, supported by signed group Cosmic Rough Riders and the best local musical talent.

Richmond Live organiser Mike Jinks said: "Paul Carrack is a huge success and by far the biggest name ever to come to Richmond.

"The fact that the town is now attracting performers of such calibre speaks volumes for Richmond Live's growing success. Events like this will put Richmond on the national music map."

Richmond Live is free and open to all. Programmes are available in local shops or can be found on the internet at www.richmond.org.uk

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