Knaresborough Town Council has taken over the running of the town's historic market in what has been described as "a significant milestone" for the community.

The move, which is hoped will pave the way for similar handovers to town and parish councils across North Yorkshire, sees responsibility for the centuries-old market transferred from North Yorkshire Council as part of its double devolution programme.

The handover follows a four-week shadow period, during which town councillors and officers worked alongside North Yorkshire Council staff to gain first-hand experience of the market's day-to-day operation ahead of the transfer.

Throughout the transition, Councillor James Pickard, Town Development Manager Mark Brayshaw and Town Ranger Oliver supported the smooth running of the weekly market.

Knaresborough Town Council has taken over the running of the town's historic market in what has been described as "a significant milestone" for the community

placeholder image — Knaresborough Town Council has taken over the running of the town's historic market in what has been described as "a significant milestone" for the community

From as early as 5am, Councillor Pickard and Oliver helped traders set up their stalls, while Mr Brayshaw worked alongside the existing Market Manager to understand operational processes and ensure continuity.

Knaresborough Town Council said it was grateful to North Yorkshire Council officers for their collaboration, guidance and openness throughout the transition.

Looking ahead, the town council said bringing the market back under local stewardship represents an opportunity to strengthen its role at the heart of the community by supporting traders, attracting visitors and celebrating Knaresborough's identity.

It has also pledged to work closely with residents, businesses and traders to ensure the market continues to thrive for years to come.

North Yorkshire Council's executive member for highways and transportation, Councillor Malcolm Taylor, said: "Handing over the operation of Knaresborough Market to the town council from the start of September represents a significant milestone in our commitment to bring democracy closer to our communities.

"By allowing the town council to take over the responsibility for this market we are enabling decisions that will benefit stallholders and residents to be taken at a local level.

"One of our central pledges with the launch of North Yorkshire Council in April 2023 was to ensure that we would allow our grassroots democracy to develop to fulfil our ambition to be the largest local council nationally.

"I hope that there will be many other similar ventures to what we have seen in Knaresborough with other town and parish councils across the county in the coming years."

The legal transfer was completed on September 1, with Knaresborough Town Council staging its first market under the new arrangements the following day in what marked the start of a new chapter for the town's historic market.