In the last few years Ham Parade has lost its greengrocers, butchers and bank. The remaining shops have noticed a decline in footfall. To save our high street, we are bringing a food and crafts market to Ham to encourage the community to come back to the parade and bring in more visitors.

Who are we?

Matt, Emily, David, Alison, Kevin, Jean and Claudia who all live locally. We have set up a Community Interest Company (CIC) to launch and run the market with all profits made by the CIC reinvested back into our local community. Read more about it here.

Long term, we have exciting plans to organise seasonal events, such as Christmas Carols, and put up a permanent pavilion on the grass opposite Taylor's Wine Shop to host bands and children's entertainment. Our ultimate aim is to set up a community-owned shop on Ham Parade.

What will the Market be like?

It will sell fresh fruit & veg, dairy, sausages, Italian Greek & Ethiopian food, honey-based beauty products, ready-made meals and garden plants, plus street foods and arts & crafts. It will also host entertainment for all ages including bands, face painting and more.

We will support one local charity each month, supplying them with a gazebo and raise money for them with a raffle. We also intend to set up a fund to provide small grants to local charities on a regular basis.

What do we need the money for?

- essential equipment such as gazebos, lights and sound systems

- marketing costs to cover banners, flyers and advertising

- extra activities at Christmas (decorations, Santa, Choirs)

- licensing costs for road closures, market insurances

- preparations for a share-issue to achieve our goal of opening a community owned-and-run shop on Ham Parade.

We hope that Ham Parade Market will earn a reputation as a well-run market that attracts top quality stallholders and delivers what visitors and local people want, combined with fun for everyone.