Hundreds enjoy day of celebration at market

The special event, which took place at the Northampton Road market, saw hundreds of people turn up throughout the day to see how the market has been redeveloped, as well as join in some of the activities on the day.

Special guests included Stephanie Moon from TV’s popular Great British Menu who delighted the crowds with cooking demonstrations and tastings, and Adam Corbally a former contestant on BBC's The Apprentice, who specialises in markets.

Harborough District Council chairman Geraldine Robinson officially declared the market open by ringing a bell - a tradition which dates back many years. Shoppers also had a chance to quiz Adam Corbally about his time on The Apprentice and find out what Lord Sugar was really like.

A children's Easter bonnet competition was held, with each entrant receiving an Easter egg. The winner of the top prize of a bike was Harvey Weiss (6) whose sheep bonnet was judged as the best by Adam Corbally.

Former Apprentice star Adam Corbally said: "This market has got it just right with a great mix of traders and goods on offer. The key to a good market is to evolve and this is a great example of how a market can change for the better. People I've met here are being very positive and shoppers are spending which of course is important!"

Top chef Stephanie Moon, who was giving cooking demonstrations using produce bought at the market, said: "The market has burst open! Traders have produce which shouts quality and good value. There is a great feeling of comradery and shoppers are leaving happy because they've bought some stunning produce or have met friends for a drink or some food."

Harborough District Council's £480,000 revamp of the market aims to create a more vibrant and successful market and offer shoppers a wider range of quality goods. The new-look market – which re-opened to the public earlier this month –  features improved layout and enhanced shopping experience for customers, including dedicated food hall, public toilets accessible from inside the venue; improved lighting, and better entrances and signage.

Harborough Market is open six days a week with the general market open Tuesday to Saturday, from 8am to 5pm, and the ever-popular antiques market open on Sundays, from 9am to 3pm.

The market will be open on Easter Monday (21 April 2014) for an art exhibition by Harborough Artists Cluster.