West Suffolk Council is excited to launch a new market colouring book for children to encourage families to explore and support local markets while inspiring creativity.
The colouring book takes children on a tour of a traditional market, meeting the stall holders and discovering the wide range of products and stalls available. There are several characters for children to meet and to learn about, whilst providing the opportunity for young minds to ask questions about their local markets.
Through funding from Suffolk Inclusive Growth Investment Fund, families will be able to pick up their free copy from the Halloween markets in Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds, Brandon, Haverhill and Mildenhall. Illustrations were designed in partnership with West Suffolk College student, Wendy Read.
Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council said: “We believe that nurturing creativity and fostering connections within local communities is essential. We hope that the fantastic new colouring book will be a valuable tool in encouraging families to explore their local markets and support small businesses. Additionally, the books may spark the interest of children and adults alike in using the markets for establishing or growing a business.”
As well as helping to grow the local economy, buying from markets can reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of goods. Children can learn about environmentally friendly ways to shop sustainably through local stalls and eco markets.
West Suffolk markets have offered fresh and locally sourced products to residents and visitors for hundreds of years. By supporting the markets, the public can help this long-standing tradition continue. Traders often have specialist knowledge about their products and are happy to share this with shoppers.
Over the next few months, West Suffolk markets will have themed events and performances focused on Halloween and Christmas with something to enjoy for all the family. Throughout the year, there are regular events often based around the season or local industry, such as the Newmarket Sausage Festival and Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival.
For further details about upcoming West Suffolk markets, visit: Events (westsuffolkmarkets.co.uk)