The first ever Warminster Independent Spring Market was a huge success with the town uniting for an incredible day of independent market stalls, music, and entertainment, as well as food and drink vendors on Sunday 24th March.
Road closures were in place as 60 stalls filled the High Street and Market Place, with a further 30 more stalls and food available in the Civic Centre. Huge footfall was recorded at multiple locations across the town as a truly buzzing atmosphere was created.
Sticky Toffee Jazz launched a programme of entertainment, singing from the grounds of St Lawrence’s Chapel. Other music highlights included fantastic performances by Dusk Drums, Jane Bennett, Wade Merritt and Ben and Tim. There was something for all the whole family, with free, fun activities for children inside The Athenaeum Centre.
Closing the road created a bustling and enjoyable experience as stall holders reported excellent sales, with some selling out completely. The weather remaining dry all-day helping to make the day enjoyable for all that visited as the Warminster community united in support of the very popular event.
A Warminster Independent Market spokesperson said: “The first Warminster Spring Street Market saw independent traders from all over the South West turn out – with many of the 60 stalls selling out completely or recording record sales, as the people flocked into town.
“Although only estimated numbers for now, we believe there was in the region of 30,000 visitors across the day with upwards of 4,000 people/hour wandering through the High Street visiting stalls and local shops. The live music was a real bonus with crowds gathering to listen to many wonderful performances.
“An impromptu performance from the Athenaeum Masqueraders and their upcoming Les Misérables show meant you didn’t want to leave the market too early. The Warminster Business Network thanks the stall holders, volunteers, visitors and Warminster Town Council and Civic Centre for their support in what was a truly fantastic event. Plans are already in place for the next one… let us know your feedback!”
Other businesses across the town also extended opening hours and had special offers as hundreds of excited visitors arrived in Warminster. Reeves the Baker and Taste Deli proved very popular throughout the day.
The Warminster Civic Centre Spring Market in Sambourne Road, was also incredibly popular, running from 10am to 6pm.
Lucy Guy, Civic Centre Manager, said: “The atmosphere was great, lots of excitement, with stallholders saying it was the best they had sold at, with many looking forward to coming again.”
Warminster Community Radio were also in attendance broadcasting live for those who could not make it in person.
The Mayor of Warminster, Cllr Phil Keeble said: added: “The whole day was incredible and a great day for Warminster and local businesses. There were so many positive aspects of the day, the Civic Centre market had record attendance and the independent market was fantastic with stalls from local traders and beyond attracting large crowds into our town.
“The event was a collaboration between the town council and Warminster Business Network and it was wonderful to see so many people supporting local businesses.
“Planning for the next events has already begun. Warminster Town Council wants to work with the Warminster community to put on super events that benefit all.”
The next Warminster Independent Market event will be on Saturday 29th June. There are also plans for a Food and Drink Festival on Sunday 1st September, and the Christmas event will be on Saturday 30th November, which will include the Warminster lights switch-on.
Last modified: 27 March 2024
