Southwick makers heartbroken as market started by WI 50 years ago announces closure
A market started by the Women's Institute 50 years ago has announced it is to permanently close its doors – but members hope it will go out on a high.
Southwick Country Market announced the closure on Facebook on July 17 and placed a notice up at Southwick Community Centre, where it is based.
Frances Burt, market manager, said: “We’re heartbroken to announce the closure of our Country Market despite our best efforts to revitalise interest and attract new shoppers. We’re incredibly grateful to our loyal customers who have supported us for the past five decades.”
The difficult decision to close has been taken due to a number of factors but 'essentially boils down to becoming financially unsustainable'.
Established by the Women’s Institute in 1976, the market sells homebaked or homemade goodies, handmade crafts, homegrown plants and more – all made and grown by local people for local people.
The market will permanently close its doors on Friday, July 31, after serving the local community for 50 years.
Frances said: “We’d love to see as many new or previous customers as possible on our remaining two markets so we can go out on a high. You can find us between 9.15am and 11.45am in The Porter Room at Southwick Community Centre on Friday, July 24, and Friday, July 31.”
The market celebrated its 50th anniversary in April. Frances said the golden jubilee was a wonderful achievement and a real testament to the quality of the items baked, made and grown.
Over the past 50 years, the market has been a favourite fixture for regular customers. It is run by about ten like-minded local people who enjoy cooking, growing and craft.