How ‘a simple idea’ has grown into a ‘thriving community’ in Bovey Tracey

Caroline from Edge of Dartmoor | Makers Gift Market

placeholder image — Caroline from Edge of Dartmoor | Makers Gift Market

The Makers Gift Market in Bovey Tracey has entered its second season with around 75 rotating stallholders, attracting local residents and day visitors while building a network of Devon makers and small businesses

A community craft market in Bovey Tracey is continuing to grow in its second season, bringing together dozens of local makers and attracting visitors from across Devon.

The Makers Gift Market, held at Riverside Community Centre on the first and third Saturday of each month between March and November, has developed into a regular fixture in the town since launching last year.

Organiser Bradley Oliver, who also founded Bovey Tracey's community Deaf Café, said the market now works with around 75 rotating stallholders, ranging from first-time business owners to experienced craftspeople.

The market showcases a wide range of handmade products, including pottery, jewellery, woodturning, stained glass, mosaics, artwork, soaps, preserves, textiles and garden décor.

Gary from Made in Devon with his bird boxes on Riverside Community Centre’s Green | Makers Gift Market

Mr Oliver told The Moorlander that many of the makers also trade at established venues including Make Southwest, Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market and Camden Market in London.

Other makers supply products to organisations such as Torre Abbey and the Blue Diamond garden centre group.

He said the market has attracted a steady flow of customers, including local residents, holidaymakers and day visitors to Bovey Tracey.

Mr Oliver's Crystals from Epic Laser Designs | Makers Gift Market

“What began as a simple idea to showcase handcrafted goods has grown into a thriving community,” he said.

“The feedback from both visitors and traders has been incredibly encouraging.

“Customers regularly tell us how much they enjoy browsing the unique range of products and finding quality gifts and treats that suit every budget.”

Tracey from Snowdrop Corner Creations | Makers Gift Market

Mr Oliver said one of the market's strengths is the sense of community that has developed among traders.

“Traders tell us they love the way the market is run, with a true community of friendship developed between everyone,” he said.

“They tell us it doesn’t feel like work, more like time out with friends.”

Sustainability is also a focus, with many stallholders using “recycled or locally sourced materials, eco-friendly packaging and creating long-lasting items”.

Tracey from Kwerky Krafts | Makers Gift Market

Mr Oliver highlighted the success of one trader, Suzy, who joined the market after retiring from a corporate career and has since grown her business selling bags and aprons made from upcycled denim, securing commissions and sales through local independent shops.

The market has also provided space for community groups and charities, including last month, when organisers welcomed The Bovey Shed to help raise awareness of its work.