Traders have been putting the final touches to their new outlets as a new chapter in the history of Watford Market begins tomorrow.

The new £2million two-storey market on the corner of Beechen Grove and Exchange Road will be launched at 10am by the Chairman of Watford, Councillor George Derbyshire. 

The historic market has been moved from Charter Place so the ageing shopping centre can be redeveloped.

Elected Mayor of Watford Dorothy Thornhill said "We hope lots of people will come and discover what new Watford Market has to offer. 

"I am thrilled that we can offer the informality of market shopping within a very innovative space."

Traders have been decking out their shipping container outlets - inspired by BOXPARK market in Shoreditch - this week.  

But not all 42 stalls will be open, as work builds to the grand opening by celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager on October 31.

John Shepherd, who has run a card and party accessory stall on the market for 30 years, said: "The old place was getting tired and something had to be done, as it was dying. 

"This is what the town needed and will give it a real boost.

"I think it’s fantastic what they’ve done in the area available, particularly upstairs in the food area, it looks really impressive.

 "A few of the older generation were sad, it was a way of life the old place, but we are really looking forward to getting going."

The market will be open 9am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and will be managed by Town and Country Markets.

TCM’s commercial director, Andrew Sparrow, said: "It will offer a meeting place for people, the opportunity to buy from independent traders, and to find something a bit different in a modern, exciting environment."

For more information visit www.newwatfordmarket.com or follow them @watfordmarket on Twitter.