Stockport-based Worker Bee Markets have launched their Artisan Awards earlier than planned to give local makers a focus during lockdown.
The first ever Worker Bee Artisan Awards, sponsored by estate agents Snapes, were scheduled to launch in May 2020 on the day of the next market in Bramhall Village centre.
Worker Bee Markets have been suspended until social distancing restrictions are lifted. Due to the impact of the coronavirus on the markets and its community of traders, curator and organiser Clare Simpson has brought the awards forward to celebrate its community of makers and traders. Clare said:
These are uncertain times for us all. Many of our makers are self-employed and rely on our markets to sell their handmade goods and make money. With the closure of markets and the government schemes not yet paying out, our makers and traders are struggling to make ends meet.
“The Awards will help makers focus on their talents and the good things in life. From their own isolation, they will be creating new designs, recipes and building up their stock. Our makers tell us they will even enjoy standing in the rain once this is over!”
Entries for the awards will close on 31st July, with winners decided by a panel of judges from the local community, including Aqua Design Group’s Dylan Moore and Cheadle MP, Mary Robinson. A customer award is also planned once the markets are able to operate again safely.
More information on who can apply and how to apply are on the Worker Bee Markets website.
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