TRADERS are set to work closer together when a weekly food market relaunches in March.

Bridport Food Market was set up by local food consultant Tamsin Chandler last year, and is held every Sunday at the Cattle Market at St Michael’s Trading Estate in Bridport.

The popular foodie venture will close until March before being relaunched with a collective management.

Ms Chandler had always hoped the event would be run by the local foodie community.

She hopes the relaunched market will operate from two different venues in the town, to be announced.

She said: “Bridport Food Market was always intended to become more of a cooperative venture, with a view to the management being shared by a group of core traders.

“This restructuring has now taken place and Bridport Food Market will continue to be run by myself, along with Danielle of The Wobbly Cottage, Katy of Bayside Bakery, Nigel of Real British Food and Ash of Magic Spice Bazaar.

“Responsibilities for the running of the market and its future development are now shared by this group and it is likely the market will operate from two central Bridport venues this year.”

Ms Chandler originally asked if the new producers market could run alongside the Saturday Bridport Market, but her idea was rejected.

She decided to go it alone, with a revamped monthly vintage market, also at St Michael’s Trading Estate, also relaunched.

The weekly market includes a street food section, with prices for stalls kept low to allow as many local producers as possible to take part.

The food market took place from 9am to 3pm, offering a selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, locally reared meats, artisan cheeses and breads, award-winning condiments and preserves, luscious cakes and pastries and plenty of surprises.

Ms Chandler was keen to allow producers to enjoy an extra day of trading at the Sunday market.

While Bridport Food Market is temporarily closed, to keep local food lovers happy and fed, Nigel Wheeler of Real British Food is hosting a Bridport Epicurean event at the Bridport WI Hall, North Street, on Sunday, February 5 from 10am to 3pm.

Local traders can enquire about running a stall, with several already confirmed for the event.

There will be a wide selection of food and drink on offer – both hot and cold – along with a wine, beer and cider bar.

The free event will also include tasting sessions and demonstrations, music and a children’s area. The market will take place from 10am until 3pm.