Visitors to the popular Friday weekly artisan and farmers' market in Malmesbury had a hoot when a special visitor made a guest appearance.

Daisy, a European eagle owl from Heathrow Owl Rescue Centre, drew a crowd and seemed to revel in the attention. The bustling market proved to be a popular attraction for the town, with all-day barbecue on site, organic locally grown fruit and vegetables, artisan breads, preserves, cheeses, pies, sweets and gifts.

The market’s organisers were thrilled Daisy was such a hit and are planning more fun for half term week.

The market takes place every Friday between 9am-3pm at the Market Cross, just up the Abbey steps from Station Road car park where there is two hours of free parking.

The weekly event started running at the end of July and has proved to be a welcome addition to the town, promoting local trade and giving the community a chance to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere in the town centre.

Mayor, Councillor John Gundry, said: "I fully support any initiative, such as this, to bring more people into our town centre and increase trade. And I’m sure I will myself be a regular customer.”

Anyone interested in running a stall should contact Jack McLeod jackmcleod-djs@hotmail.co.uk

For more information on the Malmesbury Town Team please contact Sarah Wilde: info@malmesburytownteam.co.uk