HEDON MARKET is almost synonymous with the town itself. The guide books and historic references always say “the historic market town of Hedon”. The market itself is supposed to have been in existence for over 800 years! But is the market realising its full potential for the 21st century – or is it still stuck in its medieval past?
Hedon Market takes place on Wednesdays in the town’s central Market Place and perhaps on a good day will include up to 12 stalls. Market day is undoubtedly the busiest day in the town attracting both residents and visitors alike. To many visitors the market is an enduring and charming feature of the town, whilst residents find the weekly market an alternative shopping attraction.
However, is Hedon making the most of its market offering? Some people think not. On our Facebook Page Sydell Faith Myers has expressed the view that “Hedon market is dying a death…” and asks “Why is Hedon not making sure it is all quality produce? Come on we can do better….Beverley market is what Hedon’s should be, busy clean and keeps in with the whole ethos ….what a cop-out Hedon has taken we all know it can be better.”
Mike Pearce agrees that the market appeals to some older people but writes: “I’m not sure what it really brings to the town, maybe getting some more interesting / quality stalls would help.”
So what could be done to improve the town’s market? Neil Shillito suggested last year that we have a radical overhaul of the market offering and pedestrianise the town centre:
“What about pedestrianising the centre, then putting permanent old-fashioned style market stalls on what is currently the parking area and renting them out to local residents at an affordable rate, the whole center could be given that Edwardian look and feel , this would bring people into the town,as well as provide a small income to the council to help pay towards the costs.”
Alternatively, he suggests the market could be transferred to Market Hill and be open at the weekend: “It could be much bigger with an area set aside for car-boot trade. A regular farmers market may also be a good idea on a Saturday.”
So what are YOUR views on Hedon market? Should it change location or open on extra days? Can we realistically pedestrianise the town centre? Or do you like things the way they are? Let us know via the Comments box below.
Well I finally took the plunge as I was inspired by the article – Hedon Market – Key feature of the town, but could it offer more?
Posted on May 3, 2011 by RAY DUFF-I have attended three market days so far selling hand knitted items, yarns and accessories each week my stall has grown due to the demand of the local people who have encouraged me to invest in this business adventure I am really enjoying myself and found it such a tonic socially to meet people who have a shared interest. I am saddened now to read some of the comments regarding the parking especially the resentment towards the traders I am now wondering whether or not I have done the right thing as I do not want to get embroiled in a Traders War.
Surely something can be done to appease the shop keepers and enable the continued growth of the market as it now appears to be quite full……………
Congratulations Sue on taking the plunge in this current clime. As your business has expanded over such a short period of time you have found a niche market and are obviously providing unique products and a much needed service in the area. It’s successful stalls like yours which draw other businesses into the area. The directory does not show a similar supplier in Hedon, therefore, I doubt complaints are directed at you. As for the parking facility; I was surprised at anyone being ignorant of the fact that vehicles, whilst being allowed to load/unload, they are not allowed to park within certain hours, usually before 1800 hrs.
In these days when most large stores are open 7 days a week, a Wednesday market has to offer something unique, such as local produce and/or local unique craft. If it were a weekend market I’d suggest the local art & design students at the Holderness College be given a stall where they could display samples and take orders. Some ideas would be for them to sell (1) skirt lengths of fabric personalised with their designs; (2) design logos/patterns to paint, or adhere onto umbrellas (3) design & make “shoellery” as shown on Gok Wan’s TV programmes, basically these are accessories with shoe clips which can be clipped onto a person’s own shoes.(4) artwork
Rena – I’m doing an article next week on the plans of a local Preston farmer to run a weekly Farmers’ Market from his land – which as well as local food produce could also cater for the thriving local crafts scene.
I think he’s on to a winner! More next week.
It is a very good idea but recently those who use to go to the farmers markets are rather disappointed with the high prices, I myself have noticed there are some who have there own shops and sell at the markets for a higher price surely as this is a separate business the overheads are less and you should not be paying more but less or is it just me unwilling to pay the very high prices?
i liked this article and believe it could be a better attraction how does one join and sell ones goods please
You need to speak to one of the ladies at the Town Hall (898428) – they will put you in touch with the market manager – or just pop along to the market on Wednesday, he’s usually there.
Thank you