The North Devon Journal is helping to secure the future of markets in the Barnstaple area.

New traders have been queuing up to join the markets, in particular the antique and craft markets, following an article in the Journal, which outlined plans to promote the historical venue.

Cllr Faye Webber said: “I am very pleased. The story in the Journal has actually encouraged more people to come in. It has had a positive result and I am saying thank you. The whole place is coming alive again and beginning to really thrive.”

The councillor is hoping to develop the antiques market, in particular, into the top centre for collectibles in Devon and Cornwall, and also wants to encourage more traders into the craft market.

The Journal article has helped those initiatives.

Acting market superintendent Simon Curry said: “Over the two markets we have had over 20 new traders coming in. Some of them have only come in on a casual basis for one day but at least we are getting them in now.

“We have had an awful lot of phone calls from market traders for the general markets on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday as well. It is terrific, wonderful and marvellous.”

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