Crafty Vintage Market re-opens at Holmes Mill. Here's how it all went...

One of Lancashire's most popular markets made a return last weekend as it reopened for the first time since lockdown measures were put in place.

Crafty Vintage welcomed back over 40 local independent traders this month, offering everything from arts and crafts to candles and clothing.

The heavy rain and fresh winds might have put some people off visiting Holmes Mill, but it's safe to say the return was a much-welcomed success with well over 2000 visitors attending the Ribble Valley venue with many exhibitors achieving record sales.

With social distancing measures in place, the layout was slightly different from what people have come to expect. Visitors were asked to register for a free ticket and then make their way around the open-air market via a one-way system, adorned by bunting and rustic oil drums of course.

During the weekend, the background music was provided by DJ's on vinyl along with a jazz trio who kept the crowds entertained.

Laura Johnson who set up Crafty Vintage ten years ago, says she was extremely pleased to see so many people shopping safely and supporting all of the local independent traders.

“This was our first event since lockdown and there has been a lot of hard work going on behind the scenes by everyone involved to ensure we could open safely.”

While all stalls were kept busy, one of the most popular was Hey Mr with their range of men's grooming products. These included their fabulous double head razors which completely remove the need to buy plastic disposable razors.

Laura added “We couldn't wait to get back out there and see what so many of the super talented makers and creators have been busy producing. The local community was really excited to see us back open and we’re very pleased it was a busy and successful weekend."

The next Crafty Vintage Pop-Up Market takes place in Whalley on Saturday the 25th and Sunday the 26th July. If you'd like to exhibit, applications are open at craftyvintage.com/traders