LOCAL start-ups were in Whitehaven town centre over the weekend for another successful open market. 

Organised by The Entrepeneurs Group (TEG), the market, predominantly showcasing craft and food items, proved notably popular with the public as two stalls were completely sold out within two hours of opening. 

Chris Wills, parliamentary candidate Lib Dems for Whitehaven and Workington, was on hand engaging with businesses throughout the day. 

"Small businesses give massive potential for the area's prosperity. This brings better health and well-being.

"I'm smiling about how much I enjoyed meeting the entrepreneurs and smiling optimistically about how much these businesses will give to the area.

"They should be given a consistent level of support from central and local government until they can fully find their feet in a tough economic environment.

"A grant from the central government would take them to the next level," he said. 

During his visit, the parliamentary candidate showed particular interest in Jen Taylor's felting using wool stall.

"Jen's beautifully crafted products are made by a special kind of felting using wool.

"This especially pleases me as I'm looking for new outlets for using wool, so we can help our farmers," he said. 

The next TEG market at Whitehaven will be Saturday, April 20, from 10am to 3pm.