Welcoming many stallholders from Wimborne Market, which closed in December, Minster Market @ the Allendale attracted many hundreds of customers – some ‘regulars’ from the old market, some visiting for the first time.

Filling the Minster Hall, Quarter Jack Hall and outdoor pitches were stalls including fresh fish, local meat and fresh fruit and veg, homemade cakes, eggs, baked goods, confectionery, wholefoods, spices, jewellery and collectibles, skincare, cards, clothes, watches, household goods and plants.

Customers said how much they liked the size and variety of the market, with something for everyone. Comments included: “It was wonderful, full of hustle and bustle,” that it had “everything you need for a weekly shop” and “long may it continue.”

There were equally positive comments from the stallholders, many from the old Wimborne Market. Tom Wake, of Tom’s Eggs, reported that he’d taken more money on a Friday than for a long time; Rob Long at his fruit and veg stall said it was “nice to welcome regulars as well as new faces from outside of the area,” while fishmonger Paul Williamson was pleased that he completely sold out.

Another plus is the market’s location. The Minster Market @ the Allendale is in the town and the indoor stalls are situated in a clean, warm and dry venue with refreshments being available from Café @ the Allendale.

Minster Market @ the Allendale runs every Friday, 8am to 2pm.

Early visiting is recommended as many stalls run short of produce later in the day. Parking is available in the adjacent Allenview car park, with stepless entry available to all areas of the market.

For enquiries, including for stalls, please call 01202 887247, email info@theallendale.org or see www.theallendale.org