SHOPPERS took to a pedestrianised Alloa High Street for the first time last week as the inaugural Friday Market got underway.

A range of goods and produce were on offer at around a dozen stalls in the event organised by the Alloa First business improvement district (BID).

There are now hopes the market could become a permanent fixture in the local calendar with plans to develop the idea.

The street was closed off for the majority of the day to safely allow the market – creating a very different feel in the precinct.

Wee County businesses represented at the market included Alloa's Mix Fruits, Tillicoultry's Recycling Timber, natural dog treat company Kelso and Titch from Alloa and artists from the town's Marcelle House complex.

There was also hot food on offer with a barbecue by Cedar Cottage Country Foods and sweet treats from Mr Donut Man as well as savouries from Erincroft Bakery and The Little Bakery.

And there was even more on offer with further arts, crafts and gifts stalls and other produce including cheeses and chilli products.

Diane Brown, of organisers Alloa First, was delighted to hail it a success at the end of the day.

She said: "We've had really positive feedback from local businesses, shoppers and the market stall traders.

"I think it did encourage shoppers and visitors into the town and hopefully with a bit more advertising it can only grow in popularity.

"There was a lovely atmosphere with people stopping to chat and browse.

"Improving our town centre is important to us and that's why we are continuing to work hard to unlock our town centre's future potential as a friendly, vibrant and prosperous place.

"We hope the market will become a permanent fixture on the Alloa First calendar and that the local community and businesses will take the opportunity to get involved."