A group of aspiring stallholders took their wares to Romford’s historic market on Saturday (July 7th) after convincing a Dragon’s Den-style panel they were ready for the challenge.

Despite the bad weather, the 12 traders taking part in the inaugural “Romford Market Apprentices” event proved popular, with a Del Boy lookalike encouraging regulars to try out the new stalls, which included Jacob Banfield from EZ Magic, who performed and sold magic tricks, and Eunice Aryee of Deschia Elegance, selling African inspired clothing and jewellery.

The event was organised as part of the “Love Your Local Market” fortnight, backed by the government, the Markets Alliance and individuals such as The Apprentice semi-finalist Adam Corbally.

It gave the budding tradespeople a chance to try out their business ideas without committing to a stall long-term – although some are now considering investing in longer-term slots at the market.

Havering Council and Havering Skills Academy gave advice to the traders and customers on how to start market trading.

Cabinet member for community empowerment Cllr Robert Benham said: “I am really pleased the event was a success. We are always trying to expand on what the market has to offer customers and some of the ideas from the apprentices were really unique, not what you would normally expect to see in the market place.

“Romford Market is a great place for the apprentices to start trading. It has an established customer base and visitors are always looking for great products and bargains.”

Market manager Linda Handley said: “I think events like these really give Romford Market the edge, which is why people travel miles to visit.

“Market trading is great fun and there is a great sense of community within the market.

“The apprentices had some great ideas and really entertained the customers. I can see that some of the ideas could be a success long-term.”