INCENTIVES are being offered to encourage more traders to join Chester-le-Street's open air-market.

Chester-le-Street District Council has put together a support package for people wanting to run their own market stall. The deal offers an initial rent subsidy, start-up advice, business and sales training and help in identifying other financial help.

The town's commercial manager, Christine Davies, said: "Our aim is to encourage individuals who would like to make their first move into retail and to provide a new outlet for anyone who already has a business, craft or hobby."

The programme is managed by Chester-le-Street council and Durham City Enterprise Agency.

The support packaged is available to a restricted number of businesses. Anyone interested in becoming a stall holder is asked to call 0191-3892648.