Thousands of people thronged to the new-look Pitsea Market - and hailed the revamp a stunning success.

Bosses at the market were delighted with the turnout on Saturday as they unveiled three months of hard work to the public.

Steve Brook, new market manager, said: "We were really happy with the turnout and there were definitely loads of people there.

"The weather was on our side and made it a wonderful day."

With 30 new stalls, a new toilet block and around 150 extra parking spaces, leaseholder Charfleets, who took control in August, hopes to attract new shoppers and keep current customers.

New stallholders Terry Kingaby and Amanda Willis will definitely keep their baby clothes stall.

They thought the new layout was a step in the right direction.

Terry, 44, from Malyons Place, Pitsea, said: "It was busier than we've seen it for a long time."

(Right) Bustle - thousands visited Pitsea market, attracted by more stalls and parking spaces

(Left) Proud of all he surveys - market manager Steve Brook

Pictures: ELISE GOW

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