Three market traders from the Horsham area have secured advancement to the final stage of a national contest following strong performances at regional qualifiers.
The trio qualified through the National Market Traders Federation Young Traders Competition, an initiative celebrating outstanding young businesspeople aged between 16 and 30.
Garden to Jar emerged victorious in the Grocery division at the East of England Regional Final hosted in Bury St Edmunds.
The enterprise, founded by Sarah, produces handcrafted chutneys and preserves.
Its goods are available through Horsham Carfax Local Market alongside other retail outlets.
Silver Hollow Jewellery and Brownie Alchemy both earned Highly Commended distinctions at the London and Southeast Regional Final held in Greenwich.
Silver Hollow Jewellery, operated by Dan, received recognition in the Arts and Crafts category for its environmentally conscious, handmade accessories drawing inspiration from natural forms.
Brownie Alchemy, led by Prakash, was acknowledged in the Grocery division for its gluten-free baking range.
The competitors all participated in the fourth edition of Horsham local selection event, staged by Coden Events with sponsorship from Horsham District Council.
Councillor Jonathan Taylor, the council cabinet member responsible for enterprise and property, offered congratulations to the successful traders.
He noted that their accomplishments at both the district-level selection and subsequent regional stages demonstrated the impressive calibre of emerging talent in the local area.
The councillor emphasised that the district’s markets serve as valuable environments where new and youthful enterprises can exhibit their offerings, engage directly with consumers, and develop their operations.
He expressed hope that their accomplishments would encourage other aspiring businesspeople to consider market trading.
Best wishes were extended to all three competitors ahead of the national stage.
Both Garden to Jar and Silver Hollow Jewellery have previously triumphed at the Horsham qualifying event, illustrating the sustained quality of developing businesses in the locality.
The NMTF regional competitions form part of the progression toward the National Young Trader of the Year Award 2026.
The national final will be conducted in Stratford-upon-Avon on August 28 and 29.