SHOPPERS enjoyed visiting Bridgwater Independent Market at its first-ever event this weekend, which gave shoppers the chance to buy from over 40 stalls and enjoy live entertainment. 

The market was opened by councillor Leigh Redman, the mayor of Bridgwater, when it welcomed customers for the first time on Sunday, March 27.

Bridgwater Independent Market was open between 10am and 3pm in the town's High Street and Fore Street. 

The market was founded with the aim of helping put Bridgwater "firmly on the map as a quality shopping and social destination". 

Bridgwater Mercury: There were over 40 stalls and live entertainment at the market. Picture: Steve RichardsonThere were over 40 stalls and live entertainment at the market. Picture: Steve Richardson

Shoppers and stallholders enjoyed a "fabulous day in the spring sunshine" and were entertained by live music from award-winning trumpeter Luis Carlos and tunes from the Roller DisGoat. 

The event was organised by Michelle Beck of By Invitation Events. 

After the successful event, Michelle said: "Thousands of visitors enjoyed our inaugural market supported by over 40 stalls. 

"It was an an amazing success with great feedback from people visiting."

Cllr Redman said it was "great to be able to open the first monthly Bridgwater Independent Market" and encouraged people to "pop along".

The next edition of Bridgwater Independent Market will be held on Sunday, April 24 in High Street and Fore Street. 

You can get regular updates from the market by following its Facebook page. 

Gallery: Bridgwater Independent Market enjoys successful first event

Bridgwater Mercury: ; Mike Driscoll of Somerset Deli. Pictures: Steve Richardson; Mike Driscoll of Somerset Deli. Pictures: Steve Richardson

Bridgwater Mercury: Glyn Owen and Lynne Bull of Awesome Brownies.Glyn Owen and Lynne Bull of Awesome Brownies.

Bridgwater Mercury: Kenya and Keila Menezes sold churros to marketgoers on Sunday.Kenya and Keila Menezes sold churros to marketgoers on Sunday.

Bridgwater Mercury: Ben Clowes of Parkway Brewery sold beers to shoppers in the sunshine.Ben Clowes of Parkway Brewery sold beers to shoppers in the sunshine.

Bridgwater Mercury: Karen Coxwell and Alan Cross of Farmhouse Pies and Pasties.Karen Coxwell and Alan Cross of Farmhouse Pies and Pasties.

Bridgwater Mercury: Zallah Marsh and Phoebe Hill with their range of sweet drinks.Zallah Marsh and Phoebe Hill with their range of sweet drinks.

Bridgwater Mercury: Agnieszka Waligora of Avalon Distillery was among the 40-plus stallholders at the market.Agnieszka Waligora of Avalon Distillery was among the 40-plus stallholders at the market.

Bridgwater Mercury: Steve Brand helped keep the crowds fed from Burger Bus.Steve Brand helped keep the crowds fed from Burger Bus.

Bridgwater Mercury: The next Bridgwater Independent Market will be held on Sunday, April 24.The next Bridgwater Independent Market will be held on Sunday, April 24.