Food and other stalls providing essential provisions at West Suffolk’s six markets will remain open during November’s national Covid-19 restrictions.

Markets will remain open selling essential goods as set out by Government. Clarification on what are essential goods is still being updated nationally but will include items such as food and this is likely to be added to.

Details will be updated at www.westsuffolk.gov.uk and on social media.

Cllr John Griffiths, Leader of West Suffolk Council which runs markets in Brandon, Bury St Edmunds, Haverhill, Mildenhall and Newmarket, said,

“Following the Prime Minister’s announcement at the weekend on new national COVID restrictions the Council is of course following UK guidance. As a result, from Thursday West Suffolk markets will continue to be open , and operating, but only with stalls that sell essential goods as identified in the Government’s rules. The regular Farmer’s Market in Bury St Edmunds and Clare will also carry on with stalls selling essential goods.

We will need to respond to any further changes but I would encourage residents to carry on shopping local and supporting our local markets which are essential for the recovery of our high streets. West Suffolk has a great community spirit and if you are visiting the market, please also help your family, friends and us all by sticking to the national guidelines. We all have a part to play in reducing the spread of COVID.

Please follow the guidance when you are out: leave space, cover your face, wash your hands and importantly, do what West Suffolk is famous for, look after one another.”

Permanent stalls unable to trade will not pay for their pitch during November. In the past, some have offered delivery services and details of these will be shared on market Facebook pages.