Thousands of people are expected to visit Beccles next month as the Antiques Street Market returns for the sixth year.

The market will play host to 100 general and specialist dealers selling a wide range of good quality antiques and collectables including furniture, silver, china, linen, jewellery, books, clocks, retro and vintage designs and clothing and decorative items.

And the dealers will be happy to share their knowlodge and expertise with collectors as they browse the many stalls.

This year’s market will take place on Sunday, May 3 from 8am to 4.30pm.

The event kicked off in 2009, organised by Kate Lee from Blyburgate Antiques and Christine Pinsent from Saxons, both in Beccles, and started with just over 40 dealers.

Both women have been overwhelmed with the support the market has now attracted.

Mrs Lee said: “We are now in a position where we have to operate an ongoing waiting list. The enthusiasm from both the dealers and buyers has been primary in making the market not only a success but a market with a great atmosphere.”

Due to it’s popularity and following requests from the traders, a second date was added to the calendar in 2011. The second market will take place this year on Sunday, August 30.

And once again the market will be hosting it’s own version of Bargain Hunt, with Durrants valuer Philip Stone going head to head with his colleague. Both particpants will be given a cash float provided by the organisers which will be matched by Durrants, and will battle to find the best bargains. The items will then be auctioned by Durrants and all the profits will be donated to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Targeted Radiotherapy Appeal. The organisers will also be making a donation once again to the Help For Heroes fund.

Many of the local shops, restaurants and bars will be open on the day, and food and drink stands will also be incorporated into the market.

The centre of town will be closed to traffic during the day, and will re-open at 6pm.

The event will go ahead regardless of the weather, so remember to take along your umbrellas and sun hats.

For more details visit the Beccles Antiques Street Market Facebook page.