A NEW initiative to bring people into Ludlow on what has traditionally been one of the quieter days of the week on the market has started.

Ludlow Chamber of Commerce is pushing the town’s shopping offer with an innovative Maker’s Market on Tuesdays in August.

With agreement from Ludlow Town Council, the Chamber has rented the square and created an opportunity for local artists, craftspeople and artisan food.

Many new stallholders have been attracted to the Tuesdays due to being able to trade alongside other talented makers.

Committee member of Ludlow Chamber and Market Manager Tish Dockerty says that it makes sense to use the market space especially at what is likely to prove a busy time.

“It makes complete sense to utilise the market square in what is an unprecedented busy August for visitors in the town,” said Ms Dockerty, who runs the Local Produce Market that has just celebrated its 21st birthday.

“It’s great that after such a difficult year, these types of artist get to trade in a popular market town.

“We’ve attracted makers from Herefordshire, the Marches, as well as Shropshire Hills.

“It’s also great for visitors, Tuesdays are a busy day, many coaches pass through and it’s great to see the square not being a car park.”

The markets are seen as not only good for stall holders but also of wider benefit to shops and businesses as they bring people into the town.

Pubs, cafes and restaurants also benefit from the extra trade.

A similar initiative with special ‘Tinsel Tuesday’ markets during December has been running successfully for many years. These replaced the late night opening for shops that was not seen as successful.

The Ludlow Makers Market continues throughout August, dates include the 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st. No decision has been made about the August markets next year.