Chance for Rotherham's market traders of the future

First Pitch, which is run by the National Market Traders Federation  with local councils, is aimed at helping budding small business owners who want to make their mark in the market and bring a new product to shoppers.

They will also receive personalised support from the NMTF.

Small business owners can trade for up to 12 months at discounted rent at Rotherham’s Centenary Outdoor Covered Market, with five-day free trial pitches up for grabs.

Joe Harrison, Chief Executive of the NMTF, said: “Many of our well-known brands started life on the markets and we know many people want to take that leap into starting their own business.

“First Pitch will give them the support they need to bring a product or service to the market.

“If you’re selected as a finalist, you are given free membership of the NMTF, a free copy of a market trader training guide and a mentor, someone who has a wealth of business and market trading experience.”

Sheffield and Barnsley markets are also taking part, with a total of 11 pitches available across the three sites.

To be able to trade for 12 months at discounted rent, entrepreneurs must set out their stall on a free pitch for up to five days from May 15 to 29 and be assessed by the NMTF.

First Pitch is open to UK residents over 16 with less than six months experience of market trading. Restrictions on product lines exist on some of the participating markets.

Applications have to be made by Friday at www.nmtf.co.uk.