The first Treacle Market of the year will take place on Sunday, 25 April 2021.

The much-anticipated return of the once-monthly event has been on hold since last December.

Despite COVID-guidelines giving the go-ahead for outdoor markets for much of 2020, for safety, the Treacle Market had scaled down the amount of stalls.

They will still have a reduced number of sellers, to help steer Macc through the government's roadmap out of the pandemic.

However, Macclesfield shoppers will still be able to purchase a vast range of food, craft and vintage products this Sunday.

There is hopes for a larger Treacle Market on the next edition, for Sunday 25 May.

Traders, who hope to ease back into business after a very bleak year for many of them, will take extra steps to ensure the protection of their patrons.

Vendors will be wearing masks, constantly cleaning products and hands, as well as providing sanitiser for anyone that visits the open air market.

"We are so heartened to see the determined vaccine roll out, and the significant drop in COVID numbers," said organiser Jane Munro.

"All we ask is that Macc shoppers come along with a mask, and if you can, a bag.

"Please support our traders and those bricks-and-mortar Macclesfield shops and cafés that are open too. By spending locally rather than online, you will be helping the town [and their vendors] get back on their feet and those businesses will be deeply grateful that you do."

One small local business owner who is overjoyed to sell again is Alison Sharpe (59), who owns homeware and lifestyle stall Cup + Cloth.

She said: "I'm very excited. Not only to get back out there and feel a bit more normal - be it a new normal - but to see my Treacle buddies who I've missed a great deal and the incredible customers and visitors who support us tirelessly every month."

"The atmosphere is like nothing else, the town really does come alive. To see my home town so vibrant and bustling is incredible.

"People come from all over, who all say how great Treacle is, it reminds them of those wonderful French markets.

"They see the town at its best and the potential of Macc's development is encouraging, new independents have taken the plunge and opened bricks and mortar shops and cafes too.

"It's what the town needs, we have good bones, with some beautiful buildings that are being rescued and brought back to life, such as the Picturedrome. I truly believe this confidence and resurgence of Macc is from the success of Treacle."

The Macclesfield business owner of Cup + Cloth, who lives near Congleton Rd, can be found on her website here.

The Treacle Market, which celebrated their 10th anniversary virtually last year, hopes to hold an in-person event for their 11th birthday this summer.

It is hoped there will be a Treacle Market at the end of each month for the rest of 2021.

The Market Place event will be open from 10am to 3.30pm on Sunday April 25.

For more information on the Treacle Market, please head to their website, Facebook or Twitter.

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