INCENTIVES are being offered to encourage more traders to join a town's open air-market.
Chester-le-Street District Council has put together a support package for people wanting to try their hand at running their own market stall.
The deal offers an initial rent subsidy, start-up advice, business and sales training and help in identifying any other financial help that could be available.
The town's commercial manager, Christine Davies, said: "We want to increase the number and variety of stalls on the market. Our aim is to encourage individuals who would like to make their first move into retail to get their feet on the ladder and to provide a new outlet for anyone who already has a business, craft or hobby."
The programme is managed by Chester-le-Street and Durham City Enterprise Agency, with financial help from One NorthEast.
Council leader Malcolm Pratt said: "I am very glad that we can provide this opportunity to prospective entrepreneurs locally."
The support packaged is available to a restricted number of businesses. Anyone interested in becoming a stall holder should contact the Enterprise Agency on (0191) 3892648.
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