A NEW vision and programme of events at Radcliffe market hall is seeing it become “a catalyst for change” in the town.

From film screenings to handmade and artisan craft fairs, the team behind the running of Radcliffe Market is providing a jam-packed schedule for visitors.

In recent weeks, several new features and events have been added to the market’s offering, including quiz nights, cinema meet-ups, new stalls and church pews, to name a few.

Stallholder Katie Davies said: “I really love the community side to Radcliffe Market.

“I love seeing it full and booming, and people enjoying themselves.

“There is something for everyone. The feedback we are getting is really amazing.”

An estimated 350 people now attend the weekly Friday Food Nights, which were founded by the late Jodie Bannister, who was managing director of Radcliffe Market and owner of Farrars Café & Tea Rooms.

In March, the market began opening its doors Friday to Sunday each week.

Five months on, the venue is also throwing open its doors on Thursdays for a range of ticketed events, including quizzes, open mic nights and the cinema events.

A new toddlers play area has been created in the market as well as additional seating, including sofas and church pews.

Stallholders are now moving into the market hall on Tuesdays between 9am and 2pm, in addition to the existing Thursday, Friday and Saturday provision.

Mogul & Yo Thai, run by brothers Kamran and Naman Rashid, has been selling food at the market since March 8.

Owner Kamran Rashid said: "We have loved every weekend. We bring quality food to the market and have special emphasis on fresh food.

"I was the principle contractor on the building work at the market and have been involved in our family business Mogul, which has been catering and serving the Prestwich/Whitefield community since 1991. We set up Yo Thai/Mogul as an addition.

"We provide fresh Asian food. We make our own naan, curries and authentic Thai dishes. The atmosphere in the market is buzzing and we love being a part of a family charged atmosphere."

Throughout August and September, there will be a range of craft activities taking place for children aged four and above, including ceramic pot painting, windmill making, super hero mask making and treasure box designing.

Blues music, acoustic nights, and stand-up comedy has also formed part of the new scene.

Another first-time act at the venue will see a group of tribal belly dancers take to the stage on Sunday, September 22. Accrington-based Az Kabile, led by artistic choreography, teacher and troupe organiser Dea, will perform between 7-9.30pm.

On August 29, there will be two showings of the Greatest Showman, at 3pm and 7pm.

Radcliffe Market is run as a Community Benefit Society — a democratic members organisation with a board of directors.

Rob Grant, director of marketing, said: "The market is part of a catalyst for change in Radcliffe. It is a central hub for showing the community what can happen when you put your mind to it.

"We are creating belief in the town of Radcliffe."

The team is already looking ahead to its Christmas schedule, having held a planning meeting on August 8 to glean ideas from the community.