A series of artisan markets showcasing Manx crafts and produce will signal the start of a programme of events in the town centre co-ordinated by Douglas Development Partnership.

The markets will take place in Douglas market hall on February 23-24 and March 2-3 and 9-10.

Organised by Event Management Solutions in association with the Partnership and Douglas Borough Council, the markets build on the success of last year’s European continental food and crafts fair. Development manager Chris Pycroft said: ‘Last year’s fairs attracted a good deal of public support and, in the main, twere well received by local businesses as they generated increased footfall in the town centre.

‘These artisan markets have been arranged in response to stallholders wanting a similar type of event this year, but one concentrated in a single town centre location. The markets will not only bring together a wide variety of goods all under one roof but will also provide an opportunity for Douglas market hall to reinforce its role as the Island’s only covered market. From a wider perspective the events planned from now through to May reflect the town centre’s evolving role, which is to offer an experience that goes beyond the retail and provides a vibrant social space for community interaction throughout the day and on into the evening.’

To apply for a stall contact Deana Douglas at deanad@manx.net or phone 472357.

For the latest news on Douglas town centre events visit the Partnership’s Facebook page, Douglas Town Centre Management.

Photo - Douglas market hall. Picture Andrew Barton