PLANS are underway to put the ‘market’ back into a historic market town.

Shipston Food Festival will return later this year, following a lengthy period away.

Stour Valley Lions, a group aimed at supporting the community, decided to bring it back as a way of celebrating the town’s history.

Sue Bains, Lions’ treasurer, said: “We are described as a historic market town and we have a beautiful town centre and Market Square, but no market! 

“With a reputation, described in the Mail on Sunday, as being a place to visit with excellent food and drink establishments, we feel that a Food Festival is an event that celebrates the quality of the produce in our local area.”

She added: “Up to 2017, we used to put on a Food Festival as an annual event in the town, but this became increasingly difficult and then Covid caused another pause. 

 “This year, we applied and were successful in receiving an Event Support Grant from Stratford Town Council, which has enabled us to revive the market.”

So far around 25 stalls have been booked, offering a wide range of produce and catering choices.

The festival will be held on Sunday, September 10, running from 10am to 4pm.

All profits will go to local Lions charities.