Duo hope plan will be a hit for shoppers

FRIENDS Shirley Price and Sian Day have been regular sellers at a number of produce and craft markets since earlier this year.

Now they have decided to give it a go themselves and are launching their own market at the old village hall in Penllergaer, starting on Saturday.

The two each have their own stalls — Millie's Market and Mama's Muffins — selling everything from peg bags and aprons to gluten-free and special dietary foods.

"There is no doubt that there is a trend towards shopping more locally,'' says mum-of-three Shirley, who lives in Tircoed Forest Village.

"I know I certainly think twice these days before climbing into the car and going shopping. People also enjoy the occasion of visiting a local produce and craft market as well. What you can buy differs quite a lot from what is available in the big supermarkets.

"So we thought as there wasn't one in the area we live in, we would give it a go.''

They will be joined by around 14 other traders for their first sale this weekend.

Between them, they will offer everything from jams, honey and free range eggs to jewellery, cards and other handcrafted items.

The enterprising duo say they hope the revival of a once-popular local tradition will be a hit with shoppers keen to keep things local.

Shirley adds: "To qualify for inclusion, stall- holders have to come from within a 30-mile radius of Penllergaer. I think it is what people want and for many, it is the way ahead.''

Want to get involved? Shirley and Sian's market is being held in the old village hall opposite the green at Penllergaer on Saturday between 9.30am and 1pm