Following a great deal of preparatory work, the Town Council has taken over the running of the market, which has been relocated onto Black Bourton and Alvescot Roads, the subject of a County Council closure order on Thursdays to allow the market to take place. A survey of shoppers indicated a large majority in favour of the move, and traders have indicated that their business has improved. The Council hopes to work with the traders to gradually improve the appearance of the market.

The market formally opened in its new location at 10 a.m. on Thursday 7 December 2007 when the Mayor presented the stallholders with their 'Charter'. Stalls were decorated with a Christmas theme and Father Christmas was in attendance.

The Council has also been considering organising occasional markets on the square in front of the Carterton Community Centre on the NE Development, and the first one, a Christmas market, will take place on Sunday 13th December 2009 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be children's rides, various stalls, and the cafe will be open. Contact the Centre Manager, Gill Carver, on 01993 842807, if you would be interested in taking part.

If you have any suggestions about how the town centre market can be improved, please contact Janet Eustace, Town Clerk, Town Hall, Alvescot Road, Carterton, OX18 3JL. Tel 01993 842156, email: jeustace@carterton-tc.gov.uk

Photograph: Tan Marchant