Appeal for traders after Biggleswade Flea Market cancelled

Organiser Laura Holmes had agreed with the town council to run five markets in 2026, after holding two successful events last year.

She was left disappointed when only three vendors signed up for May and June – but says that if an appeal is fruitful, dates during the upcoming months could "still be a possibility."

Laura said: "I see such potential in this location, and although it won’t be on quite the same scale as Bedford, I feel sure we could create the same sense of vibrancy and community and encourage more people into town.

"Not only to visit us but to support the charter market along with the local shops, cafes and restaurants.

"But it is difficult for small businesses at the moment; I’ve seen a decline in applicants over in Bedford too. People are having to think carefully about the events they attend, the money they spend, the risk they take."

She added: "This year could be a possibility if enough traders were willing to sign up and if the council still had the space available. It would be great if traders were willing to give it a chance."

Biggleswade Town Council had approached Laura at the end of 2024 after seeing how her sister event – Bedford Flea, Affordable Art and Local Produce Market – had been successful in bringing visitors back into Bedford town centre.

Recalling last year's events, Laura said: "Visitors seemed to enjoy it a lot. They were excited that a new event was happening, and liked seeing the market square bustling, plus we had a lovely spot in front of the Surfin’ Cafe.

"The surrounding businesses were incredibly supportive with many displaying flyers for me in the lead up."

Despite the May and June Biggleswade markets being postponed, Laura is still hopeful – and is encouraging traders to get in touch: [email protected]

A 3m x 3m pitch at Biggleswade Flea Market costs £50, which includes the use of a gazebo. Traders need their own tables and must have Public Liability insurance.

She said: “The term ‘flea market’ is an English translation of the 19th-century French phrase marché aux puces. It emerged in Paris around 1860, originating from outdoor bazaars where vendors sold old, pre-owned clothing and upholstered furniture that were notoriously infested with fleas!

"The traders I’m looking for are people specialising in top quality antiques, vintage and retro. From records to clothing, furniture to collectibles, we want a treasure trove of vintage. Preferably without any fleas!

"I always get enquiries from other types of traders that aren’t suited to what I’m organising, but they can contact Biggleswade Town Council on [email protected] and potentially join the charter market instead.”

Vendors can unload right onto the square and then use a car park close by, which is free on weekends. Set up is from 6am and trading hours are between 8am and 3pm.

"The events and traders are well promoted and I am there all day from start to finish," added Laura.

Laura says the The Bedford Flea, Affordable Art and Local Produce Market is "going extremely well".

She explained: "It is slightly different to what I offer in Biggleswade, as it is a standalone Sunday market and has the three areas; ‘Flea’ – antiques and vintage, ‘Affordable Art’, and ‘Local Produce’.”

Artwork includes illustration, painting, printmaking, and photography, while produce includes locally sourced flowers, food, drink and homewares – akin to a farmer’s or artisan market.

Laura said: "We also have street food vendors and free live music to up the vibes."

Bedford runs on the second Sunday of the month from April to November: 10am till 3pm on Harpur Square.

Laura concluded: "Yes the ‘high street’ is changing, but it doesn’t mean we can’t adapt and support what’s out there.

"Shops, businesses, cafes and events all close if they don’t get used. It is very much a ‘Use It or Lose It' situation. And this isn’t just in Bedford and Biggleswade, it’s in towns up and down the country."