Funding gives Stanley markets extra sparkle

A County Durham community organisation is marking a successful year of street food markets while securing new funding to expand the popular events.

Stanley Town Council has wrapped up the year with a festive light switch-on and Christmas market on Front Street, drawing thousands of residents to enjoy live entertainment, street theatre, choirs, food vendors and an ice rink. 

The festive line-up included the debut of a ‘Song for Stanley’, part of the Stanley Sings project by New Writing North celebrating the town’s culture and heritage.

Performed by local schoolchildren, Karbon residents and volunteers, the piece was co-created through a series of songwriting workshops funded by Karbon.

Capping off a strong year, the event followed months of bi-monthly markets delivered by food market specialists Baccanalia and sponsored by Karbon Homes.

Having received £34,000 from the The Mayor's Events and Festivals Fund, Karbon and Baccanalia will continue running the curated markets through 2026. 

Stanley-based arts organisation The Forge will also join as a partner to help shape the events into cultural as well as commercial hubs.

Margie Stewart-Piercy, chief officer of Stanley Town Council, said: “We were delighted to see such a strong community turnout for our Christmas festivities, our collaboration with Karbon Homes and Durham County Council has enabled us to significantly enhance this year’s Christmas programme. 

“The enthusiastic response from residents, even in the cold weather, demonstrates the warmth and spirit of our community.”

Karbon, which manages more than 11,000 homes in Stanley, has been focused on championing the town and strengthening local pride. 

Victoria Keen, strategic place partnership lead at Karbon Homes, added: “It’s been brilliant to see Stanley’s Front Street come alive again with food stalls and local culture. 

“It’s a perfect finale of a year of street food markets on the Front Street and with NECA’s funding we’re looking forward to scaling up the events and welcoming more local voluntary organisations and creative networks to work with us.

“With the council’s support we aim to create a sustainable market model, contributing to urban regeneration in the area as part of our approach to place-shaping. 

“By developing local connections, economic activity and skills through activities such as trader mentoring, we hope to deliver events which make lasting change and support social growth.”

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