Return of Littlehampton street market a ‘lift for the town’

Traders and residents in Littlehampton have been celebrating the return of a Friday street market, with one describing it as a “lift for the town”.

The market in the West Sussex town closed at the end of March due to a rise in anti-social behaviour, according to the previous owner.

But two local traders, Andrew Sleeman and Alf Franks, relaunched it at the end of July and said it has come back “bigger and better”.

Mr Sleaman said that with his experience running a bike shop for 37 years and Mr Franks’ knowledge of stalls, “we thought let’s get together and see what we can do”.

He said: “People wanted butchers, bakers, fruit and veg stalls, which we have brought in. It’s paying off and the street is looking busy.

“We’re all local – we’re looking to improve the high street for the community.”

The High Street was almost completely full with stalls and Mr Franks said the market only had three pitches left for other vendors.

Stall holder Varun Arora said: “The atmosphere is lovely, everyone is happy now with the market.”

Shoppers were also impressed with its return.

Sandy Duvall said: “I have been born and bred here, I used to not come down because it was dead but now it’s great.”

Graham Diggins added: “It’s a good step for the town. If it continues, the town will be back on its feet again.

“What a difference it’s made, it’s lifted the whole town.”

Karl Roberts, director of growth for Arun District Council, said: “The council has been working hard with partners such as the traders and town council to improve the appearance and offer of the town centre.

“We welcome the re-emergence of a market and hope that this will continue to drive increased footfall in the town.”