Market bid to boost visitors

The annual Harton Quays Park Craft Market is returning this summer, with South Tyneside Council inviting talented local artists and craftspeople to sell their unique or handcrafted products.

The markets will run on the first Sunday of every month from May to September, from 10.30am to 3pm.

Small businesses and students are being encouraged to get in touch as soon as possible if they would like a pitch.

Councillor Alan Kerr, deputy leader of South Tyneside Council with responsibility for culture and leisure, said: “The Harton Quays Park Craft Markets were a marvellous success last year.

“This year, the craft markets will return to run all summer with one each month and, once again, we hope to attract a wide range of traders to get involved.

The craft markets, along with the Christmas Fair at Haven Point, were organised by South Tyneside Council in partnership with the charity Groundwork South Tyneside and Newcastle.

Andrew Watts, executive director of the environmental charity, said: “We are delighted to be helping to organise and run the markets for the third year running. They are a great way for local craftspeople to display and sell their products. They are also a fantastic opportunity for us to support local businesses, and help to boost the local economy during the peak summer season.”

Harton Quays Park is located along the riverside between South Shields Ferry Landing and The Customs House. Stalls are available for £20 a day.

To book, call Nicola Campbell on 0191 428 1144, email [email protected] or write to Nicola Campbell, marketing and community engagement officer, The Eco Centre, Hebburn, Tyne and Wear, NE31 1SR.

The closing date for applications is Monday, March 14.