A FREE family fun day will be taking place this weekend at the new Wickford market in the High Street.

The event is taking place between 10am and 2pm, and the happenings on the day will include two sets from local band 'Brown Paper Bag', a balloon modeller, and an ice cream van offering free ice cream for children.

The new Wickford Market launched in the high street back on 7 May and has had a successful opening period, with the high street being pedestrianised and closed to traffic every Saturday on a six-month trial period to support its opening.

Chairman of the Leisure and Environment Committee Cllr Craig Rimmer said: "This is a fantastic event happening in Wickford and I encourage families from across the whole borough to attend this Saturday.

"The new Wickford Market has proved a great success so far, with the Saturday pedestrianisation really helping to increase footfall and adding a real buzz to the high street.

"Why not come down and explore a wide variety of stalls including plant stalls, an artisan bread bakery and fashion... and enjoy the free fun."

The event is happening in partnership with GoTrade, who aim to improve and modernise the traditional markets offer by combining local offers in partners' markets across Northern France and the South of England.