Bright blue skies on a winter day is like a present without a birthday, writes Deven Thakeria

Such was the setting for Hitchin market's triumphant takeover of Market Place on Saturday.

With the excitement of Christmas brewing, the folk of Hitchin were treated to a glimpse of what Hitchin Market has to offer along with entertainment for kids and mulled wine to fuel the festive frolics of us big kids.

Despite juggling between the regular market and Saturday's event at the square, market manager Gary Walker was happy to share his insights with Hitchin Nub News.

"The market is doing better now than before Covid," explained hard-working Gary, adding: "we have more traders. Over the years though the market's reputation suffered with both traders and people in Hitchin.

"The idea behind today was to showcase our traders at a location where we know people like to come to for events.

"They will see the traders, buy from them and hopefully form a connection that invites them to the market next time and see what else we have on offer there".

Hitchin market takeover is huge hit. PICTURE: Saturday's Hitchin Market Takeover was a huge hit. CREDIT: @HitchinNubNews

'We can't wait to do it again'

Nub News was fortunate to catch a few words with some of the stall holders at the end of their prosperous yet exhaustive day.

Sasha of Sagittarius Soul Store, who embodies the ethos of her business, told us: "My own experiences and beliefs have led me to create a holistic range of products from candles to crystals and much more. Today as been amazing and I can't wait to do it again."

Nub News regional editor Layth Yousif visited the bustling market in the heart of Hitchin on Saturday lunchtime and you can see his video interview with Deven on our Facebook page here

A hugely successful day say Hitchin traders

Other comments on a successful day in Hitchin's market square came from Tanya, director of Hillview Bakery, who served up great value and morish cakes and brownies and proudly announced: "It's been a fantastic day and I've literally sold out. I'd definitely do it again."

While Wioletta from Goldie Pets Party glowed with both compassion and enterprise, telling us: "This all began after a university assignment that I brought to life. Now I bake healthy homemade treats for pets. If we can celebrate with cake, why can't our furry friends?"

Steve the sculptor of Weird and Wonderful added: "I'm the guy who makes concrete castings. We've had a very good day here". A modest man whose creativity is without a doubt worth discovering. 

Barbara - who brings us finesse through her Austrian artisan bakery named Zuckermaus - told us: "It's always great being up here in the Market Square with the exposure to customers. The idea began during the pandemic lockdown, if people couldn't travel to Austria, then we would bring a little slice of Austria to them."

While Nayan and Ravinder - the blossoming florists of Hitchin Market - explained: "We have been in the flower trade for years, but it's our first year at Hitchin Market. The reception has been warming and we are proud to be establishing a regular customer following. Today at the Market Place has been astounding, way beyond our expectations"

Deven 'the soup guy'

Deven 'the soup guy' shares, "I haven't even given myself an official name, I sell soup every Saturday, and now mulled wine, I sway with the seasons.

"Today has been like a family outing, only a stones throw away from our home, but it's worlds apart. How could this be? I look up and see my market family all flourishing with the added attention.

"Last Christmas I gave you my wine, but this year you drank it all away. Thankfully the busy florist Nayan next door whisked me back home in his van to refuel with the magic potion. I wish it could be Christmas every day!"  

All the traders featured on Market Place are regular at the market on Saturdays and some also on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Regular market days:

Tuesday 830am - 3pm

Friday 830am - 3pm

Saturday 830am - 4pm

Sunday 830am - 1pm

Farmers and craft market: Last Saturday of every month

Hitchin market takeover is huge hit. PICTURE: Saturday's Hitchin Market Takeover was a huge hit. CREDIT: @HitchinNubNews

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