Search to find Horsham's 'Young Market Trader of the Year'

Competitors will be setting out their stalls at the West Street market on Sunday April 28.

The national competition is being organised following a partnership between Horsham District Council and the National Market Traders Federation and is open to all fledgling traders under the age of 30.

The winner of this regional heat will progress to the London and South East Regional Final at London’s Portobello Market on July 14 with the ultimate goal of reaching the national final in Stratford-upon-Avon in August.

Organised by Coden Events and Food Rocks in association with the National Market Traders Federation, the event is being supported by Horsham District Council.

A spokesperson said: “This will be a great event for shoppers and traders alike, with a wide range of up-and-coming businesses being showcased. Horsham’s regular last Sunday of the month West Street Arts and Crafts Market will operate alongside the young traders’ competition market stalls to create a lively trading atmosphere.”

Horsham council cabinet member for the local economy and Ruth Fletcher added: “Our vibrant street markets create great trading platforms for young traders, often alongside their additional sales channels such as online.

"Selling directly to new customers on a market stall is a very cost-effective way to raise their profile, gain direct customer feedback on their products and learn from the many experienced traders at our Horsham markets.

"Horsham has a thriving market scene which is key to the popularity of the town and I would encourage as many of you as possible to come along and support our young traders on the day.”

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A panel of judges will visit the traders on the day and select the winners.

The NMTF market is just one element of an ongoing campaign by Horsham District Council to attract and support new and younger traders at all of the district’s markets. Anyone thinking of market trading in the district can find more information on the council website and on the day of the event there will be a ‘drop-in’ stall providing advice and information in person.