Ross-on-Wye Town Council took over running of the Market Days from Herefordshire Council last year, and have since been investing to ensure this asset becomes bigger and better in an effort to draw even more visitors in to the town.

The council recently bought new flags advertising the Market. These colourful flags are put around the market itself, in an effort to draw people in. A banner is also displayed on market days on the railings by the Morrisons’ roundabout, telling visitors that there is a market in the centre of town.

A market research survey was recently carried out on behalf of the Town Council. The results showed that:?

• There is low public recognition that the Town Council now runs the Ross markets; 2/3 either got it wrong, thinking it was still Herefordshire Council, or they didn’t know.

• There is very low public awareness of the Farmer’s Produce Market.

• Around 2/3 of those questioned use the Ross markets on a regular or occasional basis.

• For some, however, it is just not convenient so they don’t shop there.

• The most popular lines are currently fresh food and flowers. These markets are judged to be of good value.

• There is strong loyalty to the market from those who use it.

• Those surveyed expressed a demand for more stalls and were particularly interested in more local produce, hot food, antiques, vintage and continental stalls/markets.

• 25% would like live music at markets.

• The issue of parking was raised by many. However, the tariffs and regulation of parking in the town are controlled by Herefordshire County Council, and not the Town Council.

The Markets Working Group of the Town Council will be using these findings to shape future markets policy and development.