I Am Group's Wilton Village Market success at The Guild

On Sunday, September 22, Wilton saw traders from across the south come together for an artisan market at The Guild, formerly Wilton Shopping Village.

Despite torrential downpours, a great turnout of foodies and art-lovers alike put their raincoats on to visit the historic shopping centre and enjoy live music while they explored a range of local businesses.

Led by the I AM Group, the event was the first of its kind in the Guild, running between 10am - 4pm.

I AM Group owner Ashleigh Multimear-Macmillan said: "We're grateful for the opportunity here because it's such an amazing space and Chris, the venue owner, has invited us over to revitalise and breathe life back into the area.

"What we're about is sourcing, finding local produce, traders and people and making it a real part of the community.

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"It's been really busy, its been really great. We're really supported by the venue owners. There's real opportunity here, a massive amount of parking - definitely a demand for it. We've had some real positive feedback from local traders saying 'we couldn't make this one but we definitely want to come to the next one.'

"We just want it to be a space where you come, you enjoy what's here, stay for a while with music and whatever we can bring to revitalise the area and create a real community culture."

The group intends to run markets throughout the year at The Guild, including a Christmas event.

Kelly Griffiths (Image: Newsquest)

Kelly Griffiths, coming from Chandler's Ford to sell her artwork, said: "Although it's rainy, it's beautiful. It's a beautiful venue to have a market - I just hope they do well."

A first-time-visitor to Wilton is Simon Noble from The Noble Bee, based in the New Forest.

Simon Noble from The Noble Bee (Image: Newsquest)

"Considering how bad the weather is, it hasn't been too bad," he said, "I think it could be a good one for the future. I didn't realise how close it was to the New Forest - it seems like a nice place."

Karolina from Karolcake Bakery said: "The weather is not doing well but we're selling a lot of brownies and it's a lovely place, so I'm happy to be here."

Karolina from Karolcake Bakery (Image: Newsquest)Selling flowers and plants, Christine from Hythe Ferry garden said: "I've been here before but many years ago. I think it is a good thing for Wilton, Ashley from the I AM crew wants to run something for Christmas - so we might be back!"

Christine, volunteer at Hythe Ferry Garden (Image: Newsquest)

For future markets at The Guild, visit the I Am Group's Facebook page here.