Green Sunday market in Sudbury celebrates one-year anniversary with focus on sustainable transport

An eco-conscious monthly market brought sustainable transport to the forefront, as it celebrated one year since its launch in the centre of Sudbury.

Sudbury Town Council’s Green Sunday – described as a “celebration of sustainability” – marked its first anniversary at the weekend.

Coinciding with the Big Bike Revival campaign, the event featured free bicycle repair workshops run by Cycling UK, in partnership with local mechanics, while Spoke and Motor offered visitors a chance to have a spin on an electric bike.

Organisations such as Go Start Community Transport and the Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership were also on hand to promote alternative transport options in the local area.

Rachel Price, Sudbury town centre manager, said: “In the midst of a fuel and cost-of-living crisis, shopping local and getting out of our cars will not only save us pounds, but it will also significantly reduce our carbon footprint.

“Much has changed in a year and many of us are looking for more cost-effective ways to get around.

“For some, there is no other option to driving, but could we all be doing more to explore walking, cycling and public transport as an alternative just a couple of days a week?

“Not only as a way of reducing our household costs but to do our bit for the environment, not to mention the manifold health benefits in getting out of our cars more.”

Sudbury councillor Tim Regester, the local Cycling UK representative, added: “Learning to fix simple issues on your own bicycle makes owning a bicycle much more affordable, but also ensures the cycle is safer.”

In addition to the eco-friendly transport theme, Green Sunday also showcased an array of local businesses, charities and community groups with a sustainability focus.

Stallholders included the ONO Vegan Kitchen, no-dig farm Applewood Acres, gift box vendor From Suffolk With Love and soy candle maker Tranquil Flame.