MORE than 350 people attended Haddington’s first farmers’ market since lockdown restrictions were eased.

The market returned to the town’s Court Street last Saturday, July 11, with an impressive turnout.

Now, it is getting ready to return again tomorrow (Saturday).

The visitor numbers were revealed by Councillor John McMillan, who represents Haddington on East Lothian Council.

The local authority’s spokesman for economic development and tourism told members of the town’s community council: “At the farmers’ market, 370 people came in, which is good for the town centre.”

The popular markets, which sell locally sourced products, had disappeared from the town for four months due to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the organisers worked with East Lothian Council and Police Scotland, among other groups, to see the market return on July 11.

Steps were taken to ensure public safety at the event, with the introduction of a one-way system on Court Street.

Visitors to the market entered beside the Corn Exchange before heading towards Brewery Lane and then turning back and leaving through a signed exit.

Members of Haddington Rotary Club acted as stewards, while a headcount was also taken.

The one-way system will remain in place for Saturday’s market, with a total of 18 stalls expected to be open.

Similarly, hand sanitising stations and stewards will again be on hand to try to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Val Shields, chair of Haddington Farmers’ Market, was delighted to say the returning market had proven a great success.

She told the Courier: “I think everybody was pleased with it.

“It was a nice relaxed atmosphere.

“People all did the things they were meant to do and were very patient and kept social distances.

“Stallholders were quite happy to be back and takings were reasonable overall.

“The weather was nice and everything aligned.

“It was just a good day and everyone – customers and stallholders – was glad to be back.”