Marton opens its doors
Marton’s retail offerings were supplemented by vendors in tents on the village green as the town celebrated having its ‘‘Doors Open’’ on Saturday.
The community event was organised by local women Lindsey Robinson and Emily Rayner, both former Canadians who work out of town but love living in Marton.
‘‘It was celebrating community, business and friendship,’’ they said.
The day began with a parade of more than 150 people led by a pipe band to thank essential workers for their efforts during the Covid-19 lockdown, followed by Scottish dancing displays.
The parade and many of the shops were bedecked with banners made by schools and businesses.
Rayner said while the weather was grey and cold, that did not dampen the mood.
The two women organised an event before Christmas that was designed to encourage shops and cafes to stay open longer so locals who worked out of town had more chances to buy local.
Saturday’s event was an even simpler concept, about being back together, having the doors open, and thanking those who kept working while otherswere locked down at home.
‘‘This was not about asking people to spend anything but their time.’’
However, they had been delighted by feedback that not only did people enjoy reigniting a sense of community and being able to get together, but they also supported businesses.
About 15 local growers and makers registered for a spot in themarket area to showcase goods.