Farmers' markets will return to two towns due to popular demand.

The bi-monthly events in Midhurst and Petworth will start up again this Saturday.

The markets, started as a pilot project last July, were suspended while Chichester District Council carried out consultation with retailers and the public.

Peter Blewden, environmental strategy manager, said: "We apologise to the many members of the public who wished for the markets to return sooner but we wanted to test the reaction to the markets and make sure that they were not posing a significant threat to the permanent retailers.

"Once the deadline for comments had passed, it was clear that an overwhelming majority were in favour of further farmers' markets being held.

"I hope that this year's markets prove to be just as popular."

The Petworth Farmers' Market will take place this Saturday between 9am and 1pm in the town centre car park.

The Midhurst market will be held on May 24 from 9am to 1pm in Capron House car park. The markets will continue to operate on a bi-monthly basis.