Organisers of The Ouseburn Market have launched a fundraising campaign to help make it a regular event as they prepare to hold the second one later this month.

The market made its debut on the last shopping weekend before Christmas last year.

It saw a collection of stalls set up around Newcastle's creative hub with products from independent local shops, artists and sellers with gift ideas ranging from jewellery to recycled wood items.

The next event is now due to take place on Sunday May 23, with the team behind the market working to make it a regular event.

They have now launched a fundraising campaign to help make the event happen while they try to secure more secure funding.

The GoFundMe page says: “In December, we were very grateful to have financial assistance from Newcastle City Council to make the event happen.

“However, going forward we don't have the same financial help behind us.

“We want to keep entry to the Market free and accessible to all.

“We are running a fundraiser to make sure that we can make it happen whilst we search for more secure funding.”

Organisers added: “Many people attended our first ever Ouseburn Market in December 2020.

Families enjoying the outdoor Christmas market at the Ouseburn Newcastle
Families enjoying the outdoor Christmas market at the Ouseburn Newcastle

“The market provided a unique platform for local artists and creatives to sell their work, as well as a much needed community event in a safe and secure environment.

“The response to the market was overwhelmingly positive, our exit survey showed us that everyone who participated benefited greatly from the experience.

“Attendees and local businesses expressed that the event provided a much needed injection of community spirit.”

The first Ouseburn Market in December saw more than 20 socially-distanced stalls spread outside The Cluny, Seven Stories: the national centre for children's books; Lime Street Studios and Ouseburn Farm.

Among the gift ideas on offer were glassware by Gavin Marshall and by Sue Woolhouse; prints by Sally Poore Prints; recycled products from The Wood Yard; metal and mixed media art by Anke Sayn Rainbow and headwear by Holly Irving.

The event required road closures in Lime Street - with barriers in place at the corner near Ship Inn and next to Seven Stories - from 6pm on Friday until 7am on Monday to allow for the safe set-up and dismantling of stalls.