Braintree's successful street food markets will return in 2019, it has been announced.

The council launched the monthly markets earlier this year in a bid to boost the traditional Saturday market offering in the town.

Now due to their popularity with residents Braintree Council has announced they will continue next year.

Rob Ely, the head of Braintree Town Partnership, said the markets were absolutely key to the town’s future success.

Tom Cunningham, councillor responsible for economic development, said the markets put Braintree back on the map.

He said: “Back in June 2017 we met with Rob and other businesses in the town and asked them to work together to tackle the issues that are affecting every high street in market towns like ours.

“From that meeting I remember overwhelmingly, that the message back was ‘let’s celebrate our market heritage’.

“Since then the council introduced the street markets which have been a great success in creating a buzz and bringing people into town.

“It also encourages them to stay in town longer and socialise with friends – this all increases the footfall for businesses and, importantly, it gets Braintree back on the map.”