Shepton Mallet Town Council has announced that free pitches at the Friday Market will be extended until March 2026, in a bid to grow and strengthen the town's weekly trading scene.

The offer, originally introduced as part of a wider push to reinvigorate the market, will now run for at least another year and a half — giving new and returning stallholders a low-risk opportunity to join.

A spokesperson said the move is part of wider efforts to build a "resilient, thriving market at the heart of Shepton Mallet."

The market already features a range of local traders, but organisers say they're keen to expand the line-up — particularly in some key areas.

The current wish list includes:

• A pet supplies stall
• A baker
• An olives, antipasti or dried goods trader
• Someone selling jams, chutneys or preserves

Anyone interested in applying can find more information and submit an application online via the town council's website.

The Friday Market takes place each week in the Market Place.