A EUROPEAN food and craft fair returns to line Uttoxeter’s streets next week after proving a massive hit when it was held for the first time last year.
The town centre will be transformed into a bustling market place with all the tastes and smells of the continent on Friday and Saturday, March 22 and 23.
Uttoxeter Mayor Councillor Martin Blencowe told the Advertiser the return of the event will be even ‘bigger and better’ this time around.
He said: “We are delighted that the continental market is returning to Uttoxeter.
“Last year was a tremendous success and this year’s market will be even bigger and better.
“The council has organised a road closure to affect both Market Place and Market Street to accommodate our regular traders and provide a safe and relaxed environment for visitors.
“It will be great fun and while in town, remember to support our local independent traders – they make our town really special every day of the year.”
Professional continental market traders from France, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Holland, Poland and many more countries will be wearing traditional costumes and selling high quality products at the market.
These will include Brittany biscuits, olives, Italian nougat, delectable cheeses, sausages, charcuterie, fresh bread, croissants and much more.
There will also be a chance to enjoy tartiflette – a delicious cheese and potatoes dish from the Alps – as well as freshly made crepes for those with a sweet tooth.
It is not just foods on offer with a range of stalls selling products including handbags and other leather items, Marseille soaps, lavender, children’s toys and pashminas.
Most of the products on sale will come from each stallholder’s region where they are produced by small organisations such as family businesses, farms or small factories, using traditional methods and maintaining a high standard of quality.
All of the traders will also wear their traditional local costumes from 100 years ago, as well as decorating their stall to represent the region of the country they come from.
The traditional European market proved hugely popular when it was last held with visitors hailing the ‘buzzing atmosphere’ around the town.
