PRESTEIGNE marked the 10th anniversary of its local food market with free tickets giving loyal customers a chance to win a £50 hamper of market produce. Stallholders were given a month's free rental, and a mug bearing the new logo, and a special gift was given to Mary Grey of Little Cefyn Smokehouse who has regularly brought her Churchstoke game and preserves since the market launched in 2005. It evolved from a monthly craft market organised by Gilly Johnson of the Rowan Tree shop, and moved from the Assembly Rooms, to the Radnorshire Arms and eventually the Memorial Hall. Market manager Richard Pitts thanked the hall committee for their support. Two years ago it faced closure, but a group of dedicated enthusiasts has turned it into one of the most thriving markets in the county. Richard's studies have shown that £166,000 has remained in the local economy as a result of supporting Presteigne's market once a month. Other beneficiaries of the local market include charities such as Community Support, Welsh Air Ambulance and Presteigne Youth Club. As part of the regeneration project, Roger and Ann Curtis, assisted by a loyal team of volunteers, set up a community cafe, serving Fairtrade coffee and homemade cake for a donation. The cafe has raised almost £2,000 in two years, passing on an average of £65 per month to local causes. Cake bakers and helpers at the November food market were members of Presteigne Cubs, Beavers and Scouts group. The market organisers are joint managers, Richard Pitts and Lin Scrannage, who cut the anniversary cake, Dave Pickersgill, Jean Millichamp, Ann and Roger Curtis.