A popular farmers’ market once threatened with closure can now become 'bigger and better'.

The future of West Malling Farmers’ Market looked doubtful when operator Hughmark went into administration.

It said the income it gained from stall-holders left an estimated shortfall of £8,500 a year on running costs.

But the market will now carry on, every fourth Sunday of the month.

The area’s county councillor Trudy Dean (Lib Dem), who is also chairman of West Malling Parish Council, was contacted by Steve Woods, of Meopham Farmers’ Markets, with an offer to run the market. Bob Taylor of Kent Farmers’ Markets and Julie Monkman of Produced in Kent also offered support.

West Malling Parish Council and Malling Action Partnership have agreed to pay towards better advertising; a support group for the market has been set up; and Kent County Council put in a new road closure order for the April market to take place.

Cllr Dean said: “It has been a real rollercoaster, but I am delighted to say that the market will now continue as before.

“We have two years to put the market on a firm financial footing. We have plans for the market to become bigger and better.”

The next market takes place on April 22, 9.30am-1.30pm.