SHOPPERS and traders joined together to highlight the importance of keeping town centre markets alive.

Carlisle’s Market Hall was decorated in pink bunting to coincide with the national Love Your Market campaign.

Between May 17 and May 31, traders have been celebrating the very best of what they have to offer.

With the decline of city centre shopping and the ever-growing prominence of online orders, it has never been more important to support your local market.

The theme of this year’s campaign is “Markets Close to Your Heart”, which organisers say points to the fact Carlisle’s market is in the heart of the city.

The aim of the drive is “to remind customers, old and new, to keep this historic and irreplaceable market close to their hearts”.

As well as raising awareness of the importance of supporting the market, traders have also been raising money for Jigsaw Cumbria’s Children Hospital.

“Big Heart’s Raffle” squares were on sale in the run-up to the event on Saturday, with £1 from each square sold donated to the hospice.

Raffle prizes were donated by the market’s tenants.

Free face painting was also on offer on the day for youngsters to enjoy.

Centre manager, Helen Wylie said: “Every year we decide the theme of the market and this year the theme is close to your heart, as we are in the heart of the town.

“We need people to support them, as they are at the heart of the city centre.”

Dale Carnie, 43, of Raffles, said: “I love going round markets and round car boots sales. I also go to Penrith and Silloth markets.

“I like the fresh fruits and the cafes do a decent breakfast.”

Mr Carnie brought his daughters Aimie, nine, and Jodie, seven, to the market.

Asked about what she thought about her face after it was painted, she replied: “It’s good. I like the colours.”

72-year-old Bill Williamson, who works at Pets & Plants in the market at weekends, thinks it is crucial that people support local traders.

“It is important to keep local people coming in to keep the market going,” he explained.