FIBRE broadband company Jurassic Fibre has been announced as the headline sponsor of the independent markets in Taunton and Bridgwater.

The monthly Taunton Independent Market, organised by Michelle Beck from By Invitation Events, features hundreds of local traders and suppliers showcasing the best of Somerset’s independent business community.

And the new Bridgwater Independent Market is being launched on Sunday, March 27.

Jurassic Fibre chief executive and founder Michael Maltby said: “As a South West-based and founded company ourselves, we are passionate about supporting local suppliers and coming together with like-minded businesses to celebrate our region’s independent economy.

"We are delighted to support the Taunton and Bridgwater Independent Markets as their main sponsor.

"Our mission to strengthen, support and celebrate the South West is at the heart of everything we do and aligns perfectly with the purpose of these markets, which aim to bring together the best of local independents and showcase the fantastic offerings, products and assets we have right here in our home region.”

The Taunton Independent Markets will be held on Sundays at Castle Green in Taunton on March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10, August 14, September 11, October 9 and November 13, with December’s date to be confirmed.

The Bridgwater Independent Markets will be in Bridgwater’s High Street and Fore Street and then held monthly on April 24, May 29, June 26, July 31, September 25, October 30, December 4.

Michelle Beck said: “I’m absolutely delighted that Jurassic Fibre are going to be the main sponsors of the Taunton Independent Market and the new Bridgwater Independent Market.

"I launched the Taunton Independent back in 2020 and despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, it’s already gone from strength to strength, bringing lots of people into our town centres and supporting local businesses.

"Having the backing of a company like Jurassic Fibre is really exciting and I’m looking forward to seeing a great future ahead for both markets.

"The ethos of the Independent Markets is to promote shopping locally and to encourage local residents and visitors to use and have pride in our town centres.”