Saffron Walden's Eco Market has been hailed as a "great success" to promote sustainability in the town.

The event was held on Saffron Walden Common on Saturday, June 10, and kicked off the Great Big Green Week - a UK-wide celebration of community action to tackle climate change and protect nature.

The Eco Market has grown each year, attracting a large number of traders, and this year was accompanied by a selection of food and drink stalls and a car boot sale for the first time.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Cllr Petrina Lees and Cllr Neil Reeve tried out e-cargo bikesCllr Petrina Lees and Cllr Neil Reeve tried out e-cargo bikes (Image: Uttlesford District Council)

Uttlesford District Council's climate change team were in attendence to talk about the Saffron Walden Clean Air Project, and receive feedback and suggestions.

The council's grounds maintenance team also unveiled their new fully electric vehicle, while the environmental services team was on hand to give out food waste caddies and advice on effective waste and recycling.

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Olivia, 10, from Saffron Walden, won a wormery composter - an efficient method of turning kitchen waste and small amounts of garden waste into nutrient-rich compost and a concentrated liquid fertiliser.

After learning about her prize, Olivia pledged to "recycle more and use reusable bottles for drinks". 

A number of visitors to the event, including council leader Cllr Petrina Lees and Cllr Neil Reeve, portfolio holder for climate change, tried out some e-cargo bikes, which have a larger capacity for carrying shopping, children or pets.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Outspoken Cycles at Saffron Walden Eco MarketOutspoken Cycles at Saffron Walden Eco Market (Image: Uttlesford District Council)

There was also a community energy stall, where the Energy Savings Trust gave advice about electric vehicles and how to save money and energy in the home.

Advice was also given by Community Energy South on how to set up community energy groups and projects, and how to access funding.

The next event where you can meet the climate change team will be on Sunday, July 16. 

You will also be able to sign up for free guided bike rides with professionals to increase your confidence at cycling.

Children are welcome to take part, but they must be able to ride for two hours at a medium pace.

There are two slots available, from 10am to midday, and 1pm to 3pm.

To book go to https://letstalk.uttlesford.gov.uk/events