After a trial run in May, the church will now hold the Bathurst Uniting Community Markets one Saturday every second month. 

The next one will be on this Saturday in the church grounds on William Street, across from Machattie Park. 

“We only had about 10 or 12 businesses [in May], but already we’ve got 15 businesses coming this weekend,” co-ordinator Robyn Wray said. 

The event will include indoor and outdoor market stalls, a charity barbecue that will financially support the work of WIRES, live music and activities for children. 

Stalls will feature a range of products that fall under the categories of homemade or handmade. 

Ms Wray said the idea behind the markets is to help forge connections between the community and small local businesses.

“It’s giving local businesses from the Central West region the opportunity to sell their products,” she said.

Businesses only have to pay a $20 fee to have a stall at the markets, which is very affordable. 

That fee goes to the church to support its community welfare work.

Anyone who wants to hold a stall at future markets can call Ms Wray on 0400 475 660.

The other goal of the markets, Ms Wray said, is to help charities in the region raise money for their vital work. 

Charities are welcome to hold a barbecue at the markets and use the profits to continue the services they provide.

Saturday’s markets will start at 9am and run through until 1pm. 

Future Bathurst Uniting Community Markets will be held on September 15 and November 17.