A NEW farmers’ market has been hailed a huge success by delighted shoppers and traders.

The market was launched in Clacton in a bid to attract more people to the shops in Jackson Road.

Shoppers voted with their wallets with some stalls selling out.

David Gilbert came all the way from Long Melford with his pie stall.

He vowed to return after food fans snapped up more than 200 pasties and 100 sausage rolls.

Mr Gilbert said: “We do all the farmers’ markets and today has gone really well. I’ll definitely come back.”

Steve Godwin, of Great Bentley-based Stour Valley Smokehouse, was over the moon after selling out of smoked cheeses, meat and fish.

He said: “It’s been absolutely fantastic. We’ve sold out. All I’ve got left are empty baskets.”

Nick Fairbanks, of Alresford-based Wonky Label Preserves, said: “I’m hoping to make it a regular thing. It will be really good once there are a few more stalls and it becomes established.”

The market had been organised by Sally Bernard and Valerie Cheek, of the Gift Box, who were thrilled with its success.

They now hope to boost the size of the market and introduce bread, meat and fish stalls to lure more punters.

Mrs Cheek said: “I didn't know there were so many people in Clacton. I’ve never seen so many.

“If we can persuade even more of the shops here to have stalls outside on the forecourt then we can start to expand.”

Mrs Barnard added: “It’s been buzzing.

“We are getting such good feedback from the stallholders and the customers have all really enjoyed it.”