10 pics of Ham Parade Market's triumphant return

Take a look at these wholesome photos of the first Ham Parade Market since the lockdown.

The monthly event made a successful return on Saturday, August 1.

Organiser Claudia Stehling told Richmond Nub News: "By and large, for August which is usually our flattest month, it was good.

"All the people said they enjoyed themselves. I had so many come up and say 'We're glad you're back up and running'.

"It was very positive."

The market majors on food and drink, with specialist stalls selling tomatoes from the Isle of Wight, focaccia and coffee and delicious pies.

Visitors were asked to wear a face mask if they could and a one-way system was put in place. Contactless payments were encouraged.

One trader even brought along a selfie stick and attached a card machine to the end of it, which he then passed over to customers so they could scan pay from a distance.

The next market takes place on Saturday, September 5.

Ham Parade Market in their words

We're committed to safety first for everyone, but there will be the friendly faces, delicious foods and hand crafted treats that you know and love.

So dust off your ham bags and make a date to join us supporting local businesses in the most delicious way imaginable.

We are so proud of our stall holders, many of whom offered invaluable delivery services during lockdown, and it's wonderful to be able to welcome them back to the parade.

If, like us, you cooked every meal you knew how to over the last few months (and some you didn't), then you will join our excitement in the return of some of our finest food stalls, selling everything from olives and cheeses, to pies and focaccia.

And if you eat them on the way home there's no washing up either!

Safety measures

We know reopening the market now is a big decision, and it's not one we have taken lightly.

As the lockdown restrictions eased, we decided there was only one way we could ensure it is safe for both customers and stall holders alike – one way!

You may remember that earlier this year we moved the market entirely to the east side of the parade; it will still be on that side, but now we're asking that you enter from next to the zebra crossing (outside Studio 432) and shop until you drop at the other end, by the green.

As well as adhering to the one way system, we ask that you wear a mask if you can and respect social distancing rules when walking around and queueing.

Hand sanitiser will be available on most stalls, and many stallholders will only accept contactless payments.

Sadly there will be no live music, charity or children's stall for the time being, but our friendly team of market volunteers will be at the entrance to the market to greet you as always, and we can't wait to see you there!

Click through the photo carousel at the top of this story to see all the photos.