TAKE a fresh look at Fridays, thanks to a new community interest company launched to focus on local produce and traders and the market heritage of Newport.

Tomorrow (Friday) is the launch of Market Days, in St Thomas Square, Newport.

The company was set up to bring the market heritage of the county town of Newport back to the heart of its community.

Its activities will include promoting and organising trading activities and events and markets on the Isle of Wight and providing support, education and opportunities to local micro businesses, entrepreneurs, crafts people, and producers.

The launch is being held in partnership with the Newport Farmers' Market, which is celebrating its 21st anniversary.

An augmented market day will include additional crafts and produce as well as the stalls of the regular members of the Friday Farmers' Market.

Mary Case, who has been involved with the Farmers Market since it was established, said: “Farmers' markets are a great way of finding out if the products you produce are likely to sell.

"It’s a stepping stone to bigger things. We are really hoping a renewed interest in outdoor trading and markets will really help regenerate the high street and prompt recovery.”

In addition, Newport Minster will be holding an open day from 10.30am to 3pm.