Swadlincote Market is set to re-open in full from tomorrow (Friday) - but South Derbyshire District Council has urged shoppers to follow the Government's social distancing advice.

The Council says it is 'thrilled' to welcome traders back as the town gets back on its feet again after the Coronavirus lockdown.

And the market itself is looking forward to bringing back 'the banter'.

The Swadlincote Market Facebook page has posted the following message: "This Friday 5th June, Swadlincote Market will be back with more traders as restrictions are relaxed.

"Self Distancing measures will be in operation but you can still have the banter and welcome our traders back.

"Your Support is Appreciated - Thank You and hope see you on Friday and Saturday."

Since social distancing restrictions were introduced in March this year, the market has continued to offer essential supplies, including meat, fruit and vegetables and pet food. 

Measures including contactless payment, safe queueing distances, a drive-through facility and new home delivery options have ensured the safety of both traders and customers at all times.

From Friday, June 5, all the regular traders will be back and there will be a few new additions to look forward to.

The market operator is offering free rents to stallholders, including those selling everything from clothing and curries, to jewellery and sweets.

Councillor Martyn Ford, South Derbyshire District Council's Leader, said:

"Swadlincote market is one of the key aspects to the vitality of our town centre and we are thrilled to be welcoming our traders back.

"We recognise many traders will have experienced hardship during the time they have not been able to stand on the market and we hope that the public will return to shopping at the market whilst following social distancing advice."

Social distancing measures will mean that stalls will be focussed around the Delph market square and HSBC, to allow greater room for queueing. 

Shoppers are asked to remember to observe the social distancing measures in place and continue to wash their hands or use hand sanitiser regularly.

The market opens from 8am to 3pm, every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday and parking in Swadlincote town centre continues to be free.

Public toilets in the town centre remain closed for public safety. Pubs, cafés and many shops will also remain closed for the time being.