A unique trading estate home to a diverse range of shops and studios is set to celebrate 50 years in the business.

St Michael's Trading Estate in Bridport marks its golden anniversary this month as a hub for small, independent businesses.

The story of St Michael's as a trading estate started back in 1968, when the Hayward family purchased what was then a collection of rundown factory buildings scheduled for demolition by the previous owners. The factory buildings had been used for rope and net making prior to this. In 1965, an application was submitted to build a housing estate, but the Haywards had a vision to convert the buildings into a trading estate for small businesses.

Now, 50 years on, the estate is celebrating five decades of trading and the family is inviting everyone along to 'celebrate our history and the uniqueness of St Michael’s.'

On Sunday, alongside the estate's monthly market, an anniversary celebration will take place.

The event will adopt a 60s theme, with 60s music being played by local bands and displays of classic motor bikes, scooters and cars of the time. This will take place alongside the vintage market from the estate’s traditional traders.

The celebrations come at a time of great change for the estate; after 15 years of planning, the Hayward family received the go-ahead from West Dorset District Council on a scheme to development and regenerate the area.

Plans are in place for the demolition of part of the estate to make way 91 new homes. The remainder of the estate will be refurbished.

The Haywards say a much more must be done before detailed planning approvals will be received and estimate work will begin in October at the earliest. In the meantime, St Michael’s will remain fully open.

St Michael’s Estate – 50 Years of Trading will take place on Sunday between 12 and 4pm.