A historic west Suffolk town is set to see the return of its market next month after an absence of 20 years.

Residents and businesses of Clare “overwhelmingly supported” the return of the town’s market after a drop-in event was held in March to gauge interest.

St Edmundsbury Borough Council, in partnership with Clare Town Council, is reinstating the market – and the first will be held on Saturday, August 19, on Market Hill from 8.30am-3.30pm.

Councillor Alaric Pugh, St Edmundsbury Borough Council cabinet member for planning and growth, said: “There has been lots of enthusiasm from residents and businesses to re-establish a market in Clare, so I am thrilled that, together with Clare Town Council, we are supporting the community in bringing about its return.

“Clare has a brilliant character and charm, and I know that a strong market with an array of stalls can only complement the businesses that we have here in Clare, attracting even more shoppers and visitors – while also becoming a focal point for our community.

“We will also have a free stall each month for new and local businesses to try their hand at trading, which is a great way to encourage the success of the market and of business growth.”

Shoppers to the first market will be able to buy organic fruit and vegetables, freshly made bread, lamb charcuterie, bags, coffee beans, ice cream and flowers.

To celebrate its return, there will also be children’s entertainment and live music at the first market while shoppers will also receive free Love Your Local Market reusable bags.

Councillor Paul Bishop, chairman of Clare Town Council, called for people to support the market following its return.

He said: “Our parish survey showed that people were passionate about reinstating Clare market.

“Now it has returned we all need to make sure that we support it, so that it can go on to become a busy and successful market that brings people into Clare, provides for the community and supports our local economy.”

A free stall for Clare-based community groups or charities to use for fundraising is also available and the market will be held from 8.30am-3.30pm on the third Saturday of each month.

Anyone interested in trading on the market can contact Sharon Fairweather, market development officer, on 01284 757093 or email sharon.fairweather@westsuffolk.gov.uk