Bargain hunters can get themselves some free meat as two traders celebrate 50 years at Dartford Market today.

Chas Bassett, owner of Idel Butchers, and Simon Zaiden, who sells bags, suitcases and purses, have worked at the market in the High Street for five decades and are inviting customers to share their achievement.

Mr Bassett will celebrate by handing out free meat to customers and Mr Zaiden will be giving each customer a free passport holder with every sale.

Butcher Mr Bassett said: “Idel Meats have worked at Dartford’s Thursday market for 50 years so we wanted to celebrate and give something back to our loyal, long standing customers. We’ll be giving away £3,000 of meat.”

Mr Zaiden added: “I am very proud to be part of this 50th anniversary. I have been a stall holder selling handbags and
luggage for over 50 years and have always enjoyed the great atmosphere and my loyal customers.”

Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford council, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our town’s market heritage and traders like Chas and Simon are the reason that our market continues to be so popular with customers.

“The market attracts thousands of visitors every week. It means visitors can be confident when they shop and it cements our reputation as one of the best markets around.”

There will also be entertainment in the High Street and the Mayor of Dartford Cllr John Burrell will visit the market at 11am.