Residents encouraged to support local market campaign

Residents and visitors are encouraged to show Cherwell local markets some love as part of a national initiative.

Published: Friday, 23rd May 2025

Cherwell District Council is supporting the National Association of British Markets' Love Your Local Market campaign, running until Saturday, 31 May.

This year's campaign message, 'made by markets', promotes everything local markets represent: new businesses, fresh food, community spirit, local culture, sustainable choices, and inclusive spaces. It comes at a busy time for Banbury market: a pitch fee waiver in February and March saw a healthy increase in traders, raising the market's profile and increasing town centre footfall.

Councillor Ian Middleton, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, said: "Supporting the Love Your Local Market campaign isn't just about shopping locally, it's about investing in the heart of our communities.

"Street markets can be the launch pad for budding entrepreneurs and are the lifeblood of many small businesses. They bring vibrancy and bustle to our towns, support independent traders, and offer fresh, affordable produce and other unique products along with a personal touch you won't find anywhere else. By choosing to buy local, we help these businesses to thrive and keep our high streets alive.

"We have wonderful local markets held weekly across Cherwell, and I would encourage residents to embrace the beautiful spring weather and explore what our traders have to offer."

Local markets are held across Cherwell, with Banbury Charter Market on Thursdays and Saturdays at Market Place from 9am to 4pm. Bicester Market is held every Friday on Sheep Street from 9am to 4.30pm, and Kidlington Market operates from the High Street on Fridays and Saturdays from 9am to 4.30pm.

A monthly Farmers' Market is held in Deddington Market Place on the fourth Saturday of every month from 9am to 12.30pm.

Further information about the district markets can be found online.

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