SOMERSET cricket legend Marcus Trescothick was on hand to officially open the first of Taunton's new independent monthly markets today (Sunday, March 8).

Dozens of stallholders selling goods ranging from food and drink to arts and crafts packed into Taunton's Castle Green, which also had live music and various activities to offer something for everyone.

Our photographer Steve Richardson headed to the market this morning to capture snapshots of the ribbon-cutting and various stallholders.

Michelle Beck, of By Invitation Events, has been working for more than a year to bring a monthly independent market with food, drink, arts, crafts and other goods to the town.

While Taunton has a weekly farmers market, Michelle is excited to be bringing a weekend market to town, and hopes it will increase footfall and visitors to the area.

Two charities have been chosen to benefit from the markets throughout the year, Love Musgrove and McMillan.

The market opened at 10am and will finish at 4pm.