THE long-awaited expansion of Halstead’s Saturday market has been hailed as the start of something big after a successful first day.

Ten more traders are setting up shop on the High Street on the third Saturday of every month following an initiative by Halstead Town Team.

The regular fruit and veg, meat, fish and egg stalls were joined by local businesses selling tasty jams, honey and more while Halstead in Bloom and scout groups were given the chance to spread the word.

The atmosphere was enlivened with performances by buskers - supported on Twitter b y X-Factor winner Matt Cardle.

Despite the blustery and unreliable weather, the High Street quickly thrummed with shoppers checking out what was on offer for the first time.