BUDDING business people have been given the chance to set up stalls at local markets.

Kirklees Council has offered a week of free “taster stalls” at Huddersfield, Holmfirth and Dewsbury open markets for local people running their own start-ups – often from home.

The move is part of the national Love Your Market campaign, an initiative which came about when retail guru Mary Portas was commissioned by the Government to come up with proposals to revitalising town and city centre trading.

Her report made particular reference to the role of markets as an important element of a town’s retail mix and a way of providing opportunities for start-up businesses to get their products out to the public.

The first day of the taster stalls trial saw eight businesses take up space at the open market in Huddersfield.

Stalls are also running at Holmfirth and Dewsbury markets.

The budding tycoons at Huddersfield include Claire Simpson, who makes handmade gemstone jewellery and soaps; Sophie Bebb, who sells ethical products including gifts, toys, books and trinkets; Deborah Hyde, who makes cupcakes; Kate Akerman, of pork pies business Porkshire and Christine Osbourne, who sells travel products such as laundry and toilet bags, luggage tags and parasols.

Also taking part were Emily Hall, who makes and sells jewellery and pocket watches; Susan Bailey selling kitchen knives, kitchen storage blocks and knife sharpeners and Lisa Wilson, who sells baby and nursery equipment.

Taking part at Dewsbury during the week will be Parkash Kumar, who sells cosmetics and Jane Hanson, who sells greetings cards.

Robyn Pogson, who sells handmade cards and small fabric gifts will be trading at Huddersfield while Nicola Grice, who sells handmade gifts will be at both Huddersfield and Dewsbury.

Clr Peter McBride, Kirklees cabinet member for regeneration, said: “We have attracted a good range of goods to bring some new products to the markets and also give shoppers some more choice of products.

“I am pleased to see so many local people getting involved – and there are more stalls still being booked.

“If you have an idea or have been making some products at home, this is really an ideal chance to see what the public think and have a risk-free go at running a stall.”

To book a free stall email maria.cotton@kirklees.gov.uk or call 01484 223730 and ask for a booking form.