A popular food and drink event could be launched in Halstead to help revitalise the town's struggling market.

Council bosses have confirmed they are looking into the possibility of bringing a food and street market to the town.

The scheme sees a variety of artisan food, drink and craft stalls set up on town high streets and has enjoyed a successful start since being launched in Braintree.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, who is head of Economic Development for Braintree Council, said: “We have had huge success with our monthly street market in Braintree and we are trialling a similar market in Witham this weekend.

"We are working with stakeholders to look at the possibilities for Halstead and to encourage existing residents and new visitors to come and enjoy the attractions in our vibrant town centres.”

The food and street market would likely run on one Saturday a month alongside Halstead's regular market.

When asked for their thoughts on the introduction of a food and street market, a number of town centre businesses were generally welcoming of the idea. Many admitted to wanting new initiatives which help to bring in new customers.

John Dickens, owner of Dickens restaurant, was particularly supportive. He said: “I think it would be great - fantastic for this town.

"It would give people another experience and reason to come to Halstead. Anything is good news if it brings visitors and money to the area.

"I guess the food and street market could be a slow burner but it could have a lot of mileage so long as people help it. Something needs to be done because this town needs pulling back."

Despite also being in favour of the scheme, Chamber of Trade chairman Tracy Holdgate has warned organisers they would need to keep finding ways to draw people in to make the food and street market a long term success.

She said: "I'm sure it would be of benefit to the town because the existing market is already struggling.

"Anything that brings footfall and trade to our market and town generally will help.

"It's not just about getting it started, it's about finding ways to maintain it and keeping it going.

"These things need constant impetus and would need support.

"The chamber has tried hard to get our market off the ground before and found it difficult. It would have been nicer if they had done something like this three years ago."