There was a Local Excellence Market on the Market Place in Abingdon today. The morning began with blue skies streaked with cloud.  One stallholder said they expected rain by about 3 pm and hoped it was not earlier.

A new addition this time was a stall offering dog massage. The stallholder explained that, just like people, dogs can carry tension in their shoulders. Massage helps to ease stiffness, improve circulation, and even speed recovery from injuries — and most dogs seem to enjoy the experience.

The Oxfordshire Independent Authors Group were also represented, with four writers sharing a table and showcasing books by a dozen local authors. In the picture are:
* Another Mother’s Child by Mary McClarey
* Sangre de Toro by Rachael Adam
* Murder at the Manor by Colin Wade
* Stick or Twist by Edward Christie

At a corner of Martin Wackenier’s photography stall, Chris was knitting and displaying toys. Her corner adds colour. She has taken up macramé as well, and brought along some of her first handmade plant hangers.

Alongside these were the familiar regulars — arts and crafts, honey, samosas and various breads and cakes and cooked burgers, the fruit and veg stall, the chilli stall, and many more — together creating a busy and attractive event in town.

Meanwhile, over in the Guildhall, a craft and gift market was taking place. The organisers often arrange their market to coincide with busier market days, with helpers on hand to point visitors across.