Buying local is quay to market’s success
Mar 24 2008 by The Journal
ONE of the North’s oldest markets set up stall yesterday to celebrate its 272 year history.
The revamped weekly Quayside Market , Newcastle, which dates back to 1736, attracted traders and families with entertainment and fun for all.
Despite wintry showers and bitter temperatures music played as families wrapped up warm to snap up a bargain while walking along by the Tyne.
The market has been redeveloped by the City Centre Partnership in a bid to boost tourism.
Celebrations kicked off from 10am with entertainment from George Welch and the Ukulele All-Stars and the Bagdaddies.
Commercial manager Stephen Patterson said he hopes local products will be the key to its success.
He added: “The market is now a vibrant and varied showcase for quality locally produced goods.
“You’ll find a real eclectic mix of people from artists to designers and jewellers.”
Stalls also featuring goods from up and coming fashion designers, ceramic artists and photographers will be open for business from 9.30am to 2.30pm every Sunday.
Local produce was also on sale from the Northumberland Cheese Company and the Northumbria Fudgery as well as fresh breads, biscuits and scones from Chirnells Farmhouse Kitchen, Thropton.
Tourist bosses are hoping the market will become a focal point with a family-friendly atmosphere ahead of the summer tourist season.
The original 18th Century Quayside market stretched from the old Tyne Bridge (near the site of the current Swing Bridge) along Sandgate and beyond.
Once a bustling attraction it featured more than 200 stalls selling furniture, fresh meat, poultry and fish.
Mr Patterson is also aiming for a quarter to a third of the market to eventually be made up of regional producers.
He added: “The Quayside Market is believed to date back to medieval times, and in its current format we can trace it back over 270 years. It would have been ridiculous for us not to be able to sustain the Quayside Market .”
The Journal is running the Taste North East England Campaign to encourage people to buy, eat and use local produce.
To find out more or sign up to our charter go to www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-taste
