Towns mull bid to host national market event

Funding of £17,000 is needed before the towns can be put forward as potential hosts for the event which focusing on celebrating the best of market towns.

Previously known as Action for Market Towns, the national convention is held at a different location each November.

Jan Devos, who is leading the drive to hold the conference, said it would attract around 200 delegates from across the country.

"There would be key note speakers on topics of the day and an opportunity to showcase the area and show its best practice," she said.

"It would involve a lot of expertise and workshops focusing on areas of need to help them reach their future potential."

Jan said that she was working in partnership with both Malton and Norton town councils as well as Ryedale District Council, Malton CIC and the Fitzwilliam Malton Estate.

Members of Malton Town Council have pledged £3,000 and the Area Partnership £1,000.

"The aim is to help people have a sense of civic pride and work together to celebrate what we have to offer," she added.

"I am a great believer in people working together and have been so inspired by what I have at other towns where the convention was held that I wanted to do what i could to help bring it to our towns."

Speaking at Norton Town Council, Councillor David Lloyd-William said it was a great way to advertise the two towns.

"I really do thing we should be part of a bid to host the event as it will be of benefit to the community," he added.

"I would also suggest that it is held on a Thursday and Friday so those people attending could be encouraged to stay and make a long weekend to visit the area. "

Councillor Di Keal said it sounded a good idea and she supported it in principle.

"Anything that promotes Norton has to be a good thing, as long as the town is up there and not just Malton," she added.

Council members agreed to provide £2,000 of financial support for the proposal to host the convention.