A monthly market selling artisan, vintage collectables and fine food launched in Rochester.

Rochester City Market set up stalls in the High Street on Saturday, between Northgate and the bridge from 10am to 3.30pm.

It is the first market in the High Street for hundreds of years.

Medway Council’s highways team gave permission for the independent market which is being organised by Rochester City Forum.

Philip Ruby, chairman of Rochester High Street Residents’ Association, said: “The market has the full backing of the residents and the traders and any profit from it will go towards the good of the high street.”

Godfrey George, chairman of the Rochester Association of Businesses, said: "On the 790th anniversary of the first Royal Charter for the City of Rochester which gave the right to hold a market, we are proud to announce the first market in the High Street for hundreds of years.

"This will be a market to showcase local, and not so local, artisan craftspeople, an interesting selection of collectables and some local foods.

"We hope the residents and visitors to our wonderful historic city will enjoy the goodies on offer."

The market, which will be managed by the Rochester City Centre Forum, and will be held once a month.

All income will be ploughed back into improving the market and on projects which help to promote Rochester as a key destination for visitors.

The next three markets will be held on June 17, July 8 and August 12. To book a stall or to find out more, email rochestercitymarket@outlook.com