Demand for market stalls in Spilsby sees trial expansion to Buttercross

Visitors to a market town in East Lindsey are now being greeted by a wider range of stalls.

Due to demand from traders wanting to come to Spilsby, the town’s market has now been expanded by 13 stalls onto the Buttercross for a trial period.

It is hoped that if local people continue to support the market, the market expansion will remain, providing an extra boost to shops and businesses in the town.

Esther Belton, operations support manager at East Lindsey District Council, said: “We are hoping to get even more traders interested in coming here. If local people continue to support the market then we will continue operating part of the market from the Buttercross.

“We’ve tried to ensure there is a good mix of stalls and I’ve been told the shops are really pleased with the market expanding so it is good all round.”

Spilsby’s Mayor Michael Lenton greeted each new trader on Monday.

He said: “Compliments must go to East Lindsey District Council for their advertising strategy for the markets, it is clear today, it has paid dividend.

“Spilsby was awarded a market charter in the 13th century – people automatically think of the market when they think of Spilsby. Shopping habits have changed due to the Internet but it is important that market towns like Spilsby retain their markets.

“It is common sense that the more stalls you have, you get more people into the town and the more money there will be to spend locally.”

Councillor Winston Baugh, who is the town council’s market representative, said: “What we need now is more people to come and see the market for themselves. The more people we can get the better.”

Joanne Lancaster, who runs her jewellery and accessories business called Melicia, is a new trader for the market, having recently moved from Doncaster to Skegness.

She said: “I am coming back to Spilsby market next Monday and having two stalls. I’m hoping to be a permanent fixture here so the market expansion has come at the right time for me.”

Spilsby market will also be running as normal on Christmas Eve.

For more information or to book a market stall contact Esther Belton on 01507 613532.