Stallholders were given a boost when the Mayor of the City and District of St Albans took an official tour of St Albans Market.

The Mayor, Cllr Frances Leonard, visited more than 100 stalls last week, chatting to stallholders and shoppers along the way about the popular traditional street market.

The market dates back to the ninth century and was granted a Royal Charter in 1553.

The present-day market is now firmly established in the City centre running the length of St Peter’s Street. Expect to find stalls selling freshly-baked cakes and bread, tasty specialist cheeses, meat and game, seasonal vegetables, hand-crafted goods and clothing for all the family.

Cllr Frances Leonard said: “I am a regular visitor to St Albans Market so I was pleased to be introduced to all the stallholders and to learn about their business.

“The market plays an important role in the City’s local economy attracting visitors from around the District and further afield.

“It is a jewel in the City’s crown that contributes to the vibrant shopping scene in St Albans.”

The charter market runs every Wednesday and Saturday from 8.30am to 5.30pm. On Wednesdays there is also a street food market with stalls selling hot and cold dishes, including savoury and sweet sacks.

St Albans also hosts a farmers’ market in St Peter’s Street on the second Sunday of every month, from 8am to 2pm.

Near-by Harpenden also has a farmers’ market on the fourth Sunday in the month in Lower High Street, from 10am to 2pm.

If anyone is interested in booking a stall on the Charter Market or Farmers’ Market in St Albans, please call 01727 836781.