TAUNTON is set to live up to its label of ‘market town’ once again as a new monthly event is about to launch.

Michelle Beck, of By Invitation Events, has been working for more than a year to bring a monthly independent market with food, drink, arts, crafts and other goods to the town.

The first Taunton Independent Market event is ready to go and is set to take place in Castle Green on March 8.

More than 65 stalls are signed up to take part in the first market, live music has been booked, and spaces for the following five events are filling up, too.

“The support I have received has been amazing,” Ms Beck said.

“Taunton School is our main sponsors, but we’ve got others signed up and other media partners.

“Gibbins Richards is another sponsor, and they will be creating signs to display across the town.”

Ms Beck, who also organises the popular Feast event, says the first market is around 60 per cent food and drinks, and 40 per cent other stalls like clothing, art, and other goods.

“There’s something for everyone,” she added.

“There will be some familiar faces from Feast and other events, but there are lots of new ones too, as well as vegan options.

“We are also trying to focus on South West suppliers.”

Two charities have been chosen to benefit from the markets throughout the year, Love Musgrove and McMillan.

The two good causes will alternate in receiving the proceeds from each event.

While Taunton has a weekly farmers market, Michelle is excited to be bringing a weekend market to town, and hopes it will increase footfall and visitors to the area.

She added: “I am so excited, I am from Taunton and I remember going to the market.

“Everyone talks about how the market was on Firepool but I believe before that it was held on Castle Green, it’s an interesting story and something I’d like to know more about.”

The event is being held on a Sunday so visitors will benefit from the free parking, but Michelle recognises this is a day many independent traders close their shops and hopes they can find a way to benefit from the increased footfall.

Michelle added: “I’m excited, but it is nerve-wracking.

“I am praying for good weather.”

For information about upcoming events, including stallholders, visit the Taunton Independent Market social media sites.