AN early Easter market in Newton Abbot last weekend has been described as a ‘resounding success’ despite an incident of theft being reported.

Spearheaded by The Plot Hub’s Kris Hanson, the Sunday Market has proved popular with residents and visitor alike since launching last May.

And April 7’s market was no exception.

Typically the first Sunday of each month, last Sunday’s market was billed as an early Easter market and it did not disappoint.

Nine-piece vocal harmony group, the Forte Singers, provide musical accompaniment, the sun shone and Newton Abbot Town Council described it as a ‘resounding success’.

But among the fun and festivities, an incident of theft is said to have occurred.

A vendor selling laser-engraved items had some stolen.

The perpetrators were a middle-aged couple, the Mid-Devon Advertiser has been told.

In the wake of the theft, market organiser Kris put out a heartfelt message on social media.

‘To the person who walked off without paying - to the one who slipped something into their bag, thinking no one saw - please understand what you’re really taking’ Kris said.

‘Our market traders don’t just show up with goods.

‘They show up with dreams.

‘With things they’ve poured hours, days, sometimes years into creating.

‘They’re up at dawn, crafting, cooking, hauling, setting up — often in the cold, the rain, and with aching backs — just to share their passion with the community.

‘Behind every handmade item, every home-cooked meal, every carefully displayed stall is someone who’s trying to make ends meet doing something they love.

Something honest.So when you steal, it’s not just “a quick grab” — it’s taking food off someone’s table.

‘It’s shaking someone’s trust in the very community they give so much to.

‘It’s discouraging creators from returning, when we should be lifting them up.

‘We know times are hard.

‘We all feel it.

‘But theft is never the answer’ Kris added.