Italian market a hit in High Street (From Brentwood Weekly News)

Italian market a hit in High Street

7:00am Saturday 7th July 2012 in News

CLASSICAL opera music drew shoppers to the delights of an Italian market.

Brentwood High Street was bustling last Friday and Saturday as traders sold everything from olive oils and balsamic vinegars to pates and wines.

The market, outside Marks and Spencer, proved a big hit and attracted thousands of visitors.

Eric Pickles, Brentwood MP, paid a visit to the market on Friday and treated himself to rustic bread, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

He said: “I’m very much a fan of markets and this event has taken place in the middle of Love Your Local Market fortnight which is championing markets right around the country.

“Brentwood is particularly good at promoting markets and the value they bring to a town.

“They are not competing with high street stores and are helping the town as they increase footfall and add to the atmosphere and buzz in the town centre.

“It is fantastic to come into Brentwood and enjoy a piece of little Italy.”

Mr Pickles was accompanied by Mark Reed, chairman of Brentwood Council’s retail, community and culture panel, and his deputy Will Russell.

John Kerslake, Tory councillor for Hutton Central, also enjoyed the event.

An international market is coming to the town centre next month and will run between 9am and 5pm from Thursday, July 19 to July 22.