Artisan markets are returning to Andover’s high street following a hiatus during lockdown.

The markets will return with a smaller, “bijou” version of the artisan on Sunday, March 21, which will sell a range of food, drink and plants to those dropping in. Following further relaxation of Covid restrictions, further markets are planned for April and May, including craft markets and the debut of the Andover Chilli Fiesta.

Councillor Phil North said that the return of the market was “great news” and the start of a series of events planned for 2021.

The soft relaunch of the artisan markets will take place on March 21, when a food, drink and plants market will be held on the high street, selling a range of products including pies, gin and mead. The market will be set up to provide plenty of space around stalls to comply with Covid restrictions.

Following this, the full artisan markets return on April 18, taking place on the third Sunday of each month. They will be joined by a craft market in the Chantry Centre on April 25 and May 25, which those with an appetite for spice will be looking forward to the debut of the Andover Chill Fiesta on May 23.

This spicy market is set to feature “all things chill related”, with music and refreshments to get visitors into the fiesta spirit.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North, said: “It is great news that the Artisan Markets are back. They are part of a varied calendar of markets and events planned by the council for the High Street in 2021 aimed at encouraging people back into the town to support local artisans and businesses.”

If you are a local trader or craftsperson interested in taking part in these markets or future enterprises, please email Heather Whittam at Test Valley Borough Council for more information: hwhittam@testvalley.gov.uk