CASTLEFIELD’S monthly artisan market is going weekly, as of Sunday 5 May.
The good news has been a long time coming for organisers Asif and Jodie Farakhan, who launched the markets in October 2011.
What better way to animate the city centre’s most precious waterside area, one of its most precious heritage areas and one of the most dramatic urban landscapes in the UK, than with a regular market.
Asif said: “We’ve been asking to go weekly for a long time. There’s been pressure from the stall holders since the beginning. Local businesses know the benefits of the market – Dukes 92 for example is always busy but never as busy as when the market is on. The market brings in a different crowd. Residents want to shop local on a Sunday rather than at supermarkets. It’s really all thanks to local residents and businesses that we’re able to go weekly.”
The decision by the council makes complete sense. What better way to animate the city centre’s most precious waterside area, one of its most precious heritage areas and one of the most dramatic urban landscapes in the UK, than with a regular market. It brings people to the area and charms tourists and guests to the city.
As usual Castlefield Market will feature the same community of high quality stall-holders who all care deeply about what they produce, including The Great North Pie Company and The Breadfairy.
For those who want to shop for clothes, jewellery, handmade beauty products, antiques, craft and vintage there's plenty to browse with artists and artisans galore, all bringing their handmade and especially selected objets d'art and ephemera.
Music with The Rocket - a local band - will be playing live this Sunday 5 May at 11am, followed by The Cotton Town Hot Club at midday- dancing starts at 2pm. The Black Cat Cafe has seating and afternoon tea to sit and people watch or for you to bring your dancing shoes and join in.
The market runs from 10am until 4pm every Sunday and there's free parking down Castle Street by the canal round the back of Dukes92.
Visit www.castlefieldmarket.org.uk for more information.
