Eighth edition of independent food and craft fair in Waterside Centre a 'great success'

The eighth edition of an independent food and craft fair took place in Newbury earlier this month and it has been described as a “great success”.

The Renartgades Modern Makers Fair took place in the Waterside Centre in the town centre on Saturday, April 1, from 10am to 4pm.

The fair hosted 13 local independent stall holders from Newbury and the surrounding areas that sold products such as homemade chocolate Easter eggs, handmade soaps, eco-conscious items, hand turned bowls, abstract artworks, children's clothes and colourful homewares, handmade jewellery and more.

One market visitor said: “This is just what Newbury needs to brighten up the town centre.”

The event is organised by two local businesswomen, Chloe Blair from jewellery brand Peaches and Tea and Libby Witney from colourful homewares brand Magpie and The Mob.

Mrs Blair said: “The monthly market aims to showcase some of the best modern makers and sellers in the area and encourages people to shop small and support independent traders.

“A handful of traders are selected each month, some who have traded with us before and some who are new.

“We try and mix it up each time so there's always something new to try.”

Traders interested in being part of the fair should email renartgades@gmail.com

Upcoming market dates include May 13, June 10, July 8 and August 12.