ILKLEY will soon see a revival of a weekly market in a new prestigious location on The Grove.

The market was previously located on the South Hawkesworth car park and this trial relocation will create some additional parking spaces in the area.

The market will have a selection of six traders selling flowers, fruit and vegetables, cakes and bakes, sausage, bacon and charcuterie, pictures, frames and accessories and coffee.

The limited number of stalls allows the market ample space for traders, customers and visitors to socially distance under Covid-19 regulations.

Health and safety measures will be in place to ensure the market is safe and welcoming with traders ensuring free access to hand sanitisers at their stalls.

The town has already seen the return of the Real Food Ilkley market this summer. The monthly local produce market showcases fine foods from over thirty stallholders.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “I’m delighted the weekly Ilkley Market is making a return in a new trial location at The Grove. I know the traders have been eager to pitch in again and we look forward to welcoming them back.

“Traders are working with the Markets Service to ensure everything will run safely and people can socially distance as they enjoy quality local produce from local suppliers. It’s a great boost for the local economy as outdoor market traders can safely re-open and trade.”

Ramon from Ramón’s Paintings, said: “I have lived in the Ilkley area for over 40 years and I am very much looking forward to the revival of the market. It is especially welcomed by me as an artist, it presents me with an opportunity to showcase and sell my artwork and framing items when all the exhibitions and shows have been cancelled for the foreseeable future due to the pandemic.”

Ana Colburn, trading as Wharfedale Fruit & Veg, said: “Ilkley hosting a high quality weekly market has given an incredibly exciting opportunity for small independent traders to showcase their wares. Wharfedale Fruit and Veg will be offering a full range of fresh produce that is locally, seasonally and ethically sourced wherever possible. We look forward to meeting the good people of Ilkley!”

The weekly Ilkley Market will return on Saturday, October 31, 2020 and every Saturday thereafter.