A POPULAR village market is set to return to a former supermarket site in a Hampshire town.

Hedge End Village market will be returning to the former Budgens supermarket site in Hedge End next Wednesday.

The market is aimed at helping to promote local businesses and it is proposed that it will run weekly from 10am to 3pm each Wednesday.

The Eastleigh Borough Council initiative is part of Covid-19 recovery plans to help businesses promote their products and services at the high profile location.

A council spokesperson said: "The outdoor market will provide the opportunity for local residents to safely shop in the village centre with free parking and social distancing measures in place and allow businesses to have an outdoor space to sell and promote their products or services.

"In particular, it will be helpful for those smaller businesses that may have to limit the number of customers on their premises or need help to raising their profile after another lockdown."