Whitehaven Market will be holding its most vibrant display in years when it relaunches today.

With 30 new stalls, a continental market and street entertainment, it will be aiming to pull in the crowds when it runs through until Sunday.

An official launch will take place on Saturday at 10.50am when the town crier, Rob Romano, will walk from the top of King Street to the Market Place before stating the Whitehaven Market Charter from 1672.

This will be followed by speeches from Whitehaven mayor Raymond Gill and Copeland mayor Mike Starkie, and a ribbon cutting.

Whitehaven Town Council has granted nearly £66,000 to redevelop the market which will include a back-to-back layout.

Mr Starkie said: “We are delighted to work with local stakeholders and the town council to make Whitehaven Market a thriving feature in the town again. This is an exciting opportunity not only for residents and visitors of the town, but also for local businesses and entrepreneurs looking to trade locally without additional rental commitments and start-up costs.

“It is wonderful to see excitement around the future of the market. I urge everyone to come along and support this event and help to promote the market as much as possible. We are also keen to hear from anyone who is interested in trading.’’

Coun Gill said “This is an exciting prospect for our town and borough. We have seen a steady decline in market stalls over the years, so the rejuvenation of the market is something the town council was extremely keen to be involved in and see through.’’

For more information about the market revamp or to enquire about trading visit The Whitehaven Market Facebook page, email whitehavenmarket@copeland.gov.uk or call 01946 593014.