GUNNISLAKE MONTHLY VILLAGE MARKET
AND WHAT GOES ON AT THIS POPULAR COMMUNITY EVENT
The volunteers who make up Gunnislake Village Hall committee are key to the efficient running of our popular monthly village market in the Hall, plus other willing volunteers. All monies raised go towards the ongoing costs of maintaining the Hall. It’s held on the second Saturday of each month except for January and August when we take a break. From 0900 the stall tables are laid out with cream tablecloths and the stallholders arrive to set up their stalls. Volunteers get ready to prepare the refreshments, the market banner is hung on the railings outside, and small tables and chairs are set up for our visitors to enjoy their freshly cooked bacon baps and hot or cold drinks. If you would like to lend a hand, see below for contact information.
The village community come along from 10 a.m until 1230 pm, though the pace slows down from noon usually. It’s great to hear the chats begin to flow and the place is humming. A friendly, warm atmosphere for us all. If you’re lonely, come along and meet your community. We feel this social side is as important as opportunities to buy from the stalls.
We have regular faithful stallholders and one-offs as well. You could choose from Hilary’s preserves (raising funds for KeenforGambia), Michael’s woodcrafts, Susie’s exquisite jewellery and creative crafts, Adam’s skillfully made unique pens and pencils, Nicola’s varied crafts and preserves, Justine’s delicious cakes, Donna’s gluten-free produce, Suzanne’s fun felted products and usually a couple of charity stalls with pre-loved articles. There’s books, cards, scarves, financial advice and more. Each month we plan to have one free stall that promotes a local voluntary organisation. In October, Jane was inviting visitors to join the Patient Participation Group linked to our local health centre. In November, our valued community bus will feature with seasonal cards to buy to raise much needed funds.
The maximum number of stalls is 14; it costs £5 per table payable on the day in cash at the present time. We may consider a different payment structure in the future. If you are interested in selling your wares, please contact either Lorna Baker on 07785 966593 or Jane Ridsdill on 07802 490495. We do try our best to provide a variety of stalls and are always on the look-out for new ideas. We miss the input of Tamar Valley Garden Nursery with their plants, fruit, veg and baking items in particular.
Here are some pictures taken from the October market. Many thanks to everyone who helps and all who support Gunnislake Village Market. The December market is on the 14th, no market in January and then we return on the 8th February 2025.
Lorna Baker, Jane Ridsdill and Gunnislake Village Hall committee
