Our Village Markets

It is easy to be negative about the Day/flea Markets that are organised in our village. The stall holders are all trying their best I suppose. Micro Entrepreneurs reckoning that they have a special product or service and that their prices are a bargain……
I attend these markets year after year I am still attracted to go back and have a walk around. Why is that?
It is not the stalls or the items on sale. I go back because of the whole organisation. Henley itself is on display. The people that are at the market – the “market- go-ers” represent the spirit Henley. I go to watch the people of my little village. Individually I know them by sight and nodding acquaintance, but the collective, the group effort, put in by the organisers make me want to return.
The well-dressed young people, the young families reminding me of my own grandchildren, the bustle and movement of people around the stalls and the Oak tree. The couples in love who have gone to the market to meet friends and to show off their new relationships are a special delight! A safe place to socialise and plan what to do for the rest of the day.
What I like best are the dogs – and their owners. The big Rottweiler who licks your hand and leans against your knees for a scratch. The Border collies wearing their bandannas. The little Yorkies on leads pretending to be German Shepherds. The well-loved pavement specials that have been rescued and are now senior members of the family.
Each market is different, each market is fun, and each market gives a sense of what Henley is all about. Please organisers, keep up the effort- we love you………