Friday, January 7, saw a fine start for the new Minster Market at the Allendale Centre in Wimborne. Welcoming many stallholders from Wimborne Market, which closed in December, Minster Market @ the Allendale attracted hundreds of customers – some ‘regulars’ from the old market, some first-timers.

Filling the Minster Hall, Quarter Jack Hall and outdoor pitches were stalls including fresh fish, local meat and fresh fruit & veg, homemade cakes, eggs, baked goods, confectionery, wholefoods, spices, jewellery and collectibles, skincare, cards, clothes, watches, household goods and plants. Customers said how much they liked the size and variety of the market, with something for everyone. Comments included: ‘It was wonderful, full of hustle and bustle’, that it had ‘everything you need for a weekly shop’ and ‘long may it continue’.

There were equally positive comments from the stallholders, many from the old Wimborne Market. Tom Wake, of Tom’s Eggs, reported that he’d taken more money on a Friday than for a long time, Rob Long at his fruit and veg stall said it was|: ‘nice to welcome regulars as well as new faces from outside of the area’, while fishmonger Paul Williamson was pleased that he completely sold out! Customers and stallholders alike were very happy with the location, a clean, warm and dry venue and refreshments being available.

Minster Market @ the Allendale runs every Friday, 8am to 2pm. Early visiting is recommended as many stalls run short of produce. Parking is available in Allenview car park, with stepless entry available to all areas. For enquiries, including for stalls, call 01202 887247, email info@theallendale.org or see www.theallendale.org.