Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) has announced the Tuesday and Saturday markets at Lockmeadow will go ahead as usual to help with the supply of fresh produce during the coronavirus outbreak.

The Council is encouraging traders to sell essential items that are in high demand such as fresh fruit and vegetables, cleaning products and toilet rolls.

MBC says staying open will support local producers, farmers and wholesalers who would normally supply restaurants and cafés.

Larger gaps of two metres will be introduced between each pitch and all stalls will be outside.

Customers will also be encouraged to follow safe distance guidelines by sticking to the two metre floor markings when shopping and queuing.

The market on Barker Road will take place on Tuesday and Saturday mornings between 7.30am and 1.30pm.

MBC says it is keeping in line with guidelines from the National Association of British Market Authorities which says: “In terms of whether markets should stay open, currently retail, including markets, is unaffected by the measures.”

Many farmers' markets across Kent have also chosen to stay open with visitors urged to pre-order or arrange deliveries.

Suppliers wanting more information should contact the MBC Market Manager by calling 01622 60225, or emailing marketservices@maidstone.gov.uk

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