A MONTHLY market is inviting shoppers to help celebrate its second birthday.

Darlington Sunday People’s Market was launched by volunteers in August 2012 to help rejuvenate the town centre and showcase the region’s independent businesses.

It was so successful it was named the named the National Association of British Market Authorities market of the year last year and came runner up in this year’s competition.

The market has also helped a number of fledgling businesses grow and become more established in the town, including Retro Sweet Shop, in Priestgate, and Drawn Threads, now based at Lingfield Point.

To celebrate its second anniversary, this Sunday’s market (August 3) will feature a cake cutting ceremony at noon, as well as dozens of stalls offering a range of goods, including glass jewellery, art supplies, and cup cakes.

The event takes place from 11am to 4pm on Blackwellgate and West Row, and will run alongside a free music festival – Buskers in Blackwellgate – organised by Guru Boutique owner, Beryl Hankin.

Shoppers will be serenaded by a host of local musicians, including Beth Pedelty, Ivor Pop and Willow Creek, who will perform throughout the day in Blackwellgate from 11am.

To book a stall at the market or to find out more visit facebook.com/dspmsundays or email dspm.darlington@live.co.uk