Market traders in Thame are saying thank you to their community by offering a free stall to local community groups and charities for the day.

The Thame Market Community Day is an annual event run by the Thame Market Traders’ Co-operative which gives local good causes the chance to showcase what they do, sell items to raise funds and recruit new volunteers. This year it is on Tuesday, August 20.

The community day is a very popular event, so groups and charities can enjoy the buzz of the market crowds and promote their organisation right in the heart of the community.

People visiting the busy market can learn more about the voluntary work happening on their doorstep and find out about the diverse volunteering opportunities available.

They can also take advantage of local produce and crafts being sold by the groups to raise funds so they can continue their good work.

Chris Hurdman, secretary of Thame Market Traders’ Co-operative, said: “Thame market is an established part of the community and the traders would like to give back to the people that support us. “We also have our Tuesday community stalls which we provide every week for any local group or charity to use free of charge.

“It’s a great way of bringing all these groups together without them having to incur any costs. “We feel it is important that the community is able to feel part of such a vibrant market and we want local voluntary groups and charities to make use of the footfall that it brings to Thame.

“It would be great to see residents out in the market on August 20 to see what local groups and charities are doing.”

Michelle Diffey is the chairman of SAFARI (Self Advocacy For Adults Requiring Independence) and also works with Thame Wombles making gifts to sell at the market.

She said: “We are looking forward to this year’s community day as it raises both the profile and funds for our group. We are so grateful to the market traders for the work that they put in to make the day a success.”

If you work or volunteer for a community or voluntary group or charity in Thame and surrounding areas and would like to be part of this event, contact Chris Hurdman either in person at the market any Tuesday or email chrishurdman@btinternet.com for an application form before August 15.