Horsham’s town centre markets to run this Saturday

Feedback from walk-up customers last weekend was extremely positive and social distancing was well observed, a Horsham District Council spokeswoman said.

She added: “This week’s Carfax market layout will be even more dispersed to offer more protection. Initial response to online purchasing was strong with some 100 orders being processed for both click and collect and home delivery options.

“In the absence of the Carfax’s regular organic fruit and vegetable stall holder due to personal lockdown, it has been arranged for fruit and vegetable orders to be fulfilled by Coden’s Greengrocers (who will trade as usual from the Bishopric Market area).

“Customers are urged to take advantage of the online ordering options this week via www.horshammarkets.co.uk but are reminded that delivery capacity is limited while this service is being established.”

Click and collect orders can generally be placed up to midday Friday before each Saturday but customers should check online as some products could have longer lead times, the spokeswoman added.

The council said it understands concerns about the continuation of the markets but that the availability of fresh produce is an essential service.

It said in an online poll with 540 responses, 26 per cent said they would only use a walk up market, 55 per cent said they would prefer a click and collect service and 77 per cent voted for a home delivery service from the markets.