A SERIES of popular street markets are set to return to Braintree and Witham town centres.

Braintree Council has announced the dates for this year’s markets, with the first set to take place in Braintree in just four weeks time.

This year’s events will again see a range of food, drink and gift stalls set up in the town centres on specified Saturdays.

Braintree Council’s economic development boss Tom Cunningham said: “The street markets are a fantastic addition to our event’s calendar, so we’re really excited to bring them back to Braintree and Witham this year with a mix of old favourites returning, brand new stalls and a dose of live music and entertainment for visitors to enjoy.

“Since we introduced them two years ago, they’ve become a destination that people want to visit and spend time and are a real asset to both towns, with increased footfall for local businesses.”

The street markets will take place on the last Saturday of every month in Braintree, while three will be held in Witham in the summer, with the first scheduled for June 6.

Bosses at Causeway House say they are looking at creating “new and exciting events” for Witham and are speaking to business owners in the town to get further ideas.

Braintree Council says its street markets have seen traders report higher sales and led to increased footfall in the town centres.

The artisan events have proven a big hit since they were first trialled in 2018.

The success saw the street market become a monthly event in Braintree last year.

It was then launched in Witham last summer to help boost visitor numbers alongside the town’s traditional market.

The first market takes place in Braintree on Saturday, March 28.

Full dates and details o are available at visitbraintreedistrict.co.uk/whats-on/markets.