Published at 16:37, Monday, 11 February 2013

TOWN centre trade is to receive a double boost this year after two outdoor events were given the green light.

Barrow Borough Council’s licensing committee met on Thursday and granted permission for the first ever Foodie Fest to take place this summer.

And a European craft market will also take place in the spring, with members granting street trading consent for the event.

Foodie Fest will take place on June 8 and 9.

The event will feature top chefs, such as Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sunday Brunch’s Simon Rimmer.

A marquee will host three cooking demonstrations a day, with two chefs taking part in each session, and between 20 and 40 food stalls will line Dalton Road and Portland Walk.

Barrow town centre and festivals manager Ann Taylforth told the meeting the council was approached by Barrow Traders’ Association to back the hosting of the event in order to boost trade.

She said: “I think we have got one of the best food festival line-ups in the UK which is pretty good for Barrow.”

The European market will run from May 1-4, with gifts such as Turkish jewellery, Italian biscuits and textiles set to be sold.

Mrs Taylforth said: “The council has been approached by European Gift Events who have proposed for a continental market to be held from Wednesday May 1 until Saturday May 4. There will be 10 traders selling a variety of gifts.”

The committee welcomed both proposals, with members stating they will boost the town.

Councillor Alan Pemberton said: “I think anything that attracts people to the town centre is a good thing.”

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