PLANS to introduce a new monthly speciality market in Ringwood have been backed by town councillors.

The proposals for a "street market with a difference" were discussed at a recent meeting of the council's recreation, leisure and open spaces committee.

Organised by residents Nickie Jowett and Rae Frederick trading under the name of 'In The Event Of', the market aims to promote local traders who can offer quality grown or sourced produce, contemporary design and hand crafted treasures.

Alongside traders, the organisers hope to encourage local independent clubs and pre-schools to have a pitch and in the longer term welcome musicians and DJ's.

The market is planned for the fourth Sunday of the month, starting in June, at the Gateway.

Permission is needed from the council to run the event and the plans have received a positive reaction.

Members of the recreation committee supported the market and recommended it to full council for approval, although asked for clarification on some issues.

A summary of the market proposals which was presented to the recreation committee by Ms Jowett and Ms Frederick says: "The Ringwood Speciality Market will be a destination street market with a difference. In The Event Of will reclaim the Gateway once a month to showcase the best independent craftspeople, designers, makers, producers and traders in the region."

"This is a new venture and will need the patience and moral support of the Town Council. This market will not happen overnight like any new market it will need a number of months to get up and running. It is expected it will start small and grow over a number of months."

Cllr Tim Ward asked the proposers to ensure they provided full details on areas around health and safety and environmental health.

He also admitted it was unfortunate that running events of this nature could not easily be facilitated in the traditional town centre.

"There were some things missing that need to be looked at. It is important to make sure everything is covered so they didn't leave themselves or the council liable for any problems.

"We do support things like this, but at the same time it is disappointing nobody wants to have a market in the Market Place because of lack of footfall and with issues around road closures.

"It is unfortunate that we will be accused of being complicit in moving the town centre to the Furlong, but it is very difficult to do otherwise."