NORTHWICH’S first teenage market was hailed as a ‘day of energy, enthusiasm and talent’.

The 'Teenage Market' took place alongside the monthly Artisan Market, organised by the Market Co, and provided an opportunity for teenage traders and performers to show off their talents for the first time.

More than 14 teenagers ran stalls selling jewellery, arts and homemade gifts and 12 aspiring performers and vocalists took to the microphones as part of the Amplify Youth Music Project to entertain the shoppers.

Melissa Stockton, 18, was one of the young traders who took part.

“Saturday was just wonderful," she said.

"There was a real sense of camaraderie with other teenage traders and those in the Artisan Market too. I took just over £100 which is brilliant for my first time and it was great to get such positive feedback on my jewellery too.”

Jake Jones, 18, lead singer in Outlines, added: "It was really good in the way that the market built an audience for the music, and visa versa, I feel it will be really good for the youths in Northwich if this were to happen again.”

Gaynor Sinar, chair of Northwich Business Improvement District, which is funding the Teenage Market in Northwich, said: “This was something very different for Northwich and it was wonderful to see so many young traders out in force.

"The live music was something really quite special and I’m delighted that Northwich could give these youngsters the opportunity to show off their talents.

“All the events the BID has put on this year show what’s possible here in Northwich and help to create a vibrant atmosphere in our town centre.

"It was incredibly busy on Saturday and because of the overwhelming response we’ve already planned our second teenage market for October.”

Paul Barratt, from Cheshire West and Chester Young People’s Services and Amplify, the Youth Music Project, said: “The first Teenage Market was an overwhelming success, it was a great platform for the young people of Northwich to show off their talents and skills.

"I’m looking forward to see it grow and grow and it was pleasure and a privilege for Amplify to provide the soundtrack to the day.”