Young people looking for Christmas cash and fame can make their mark this winter as the Dudley borough hosts four separate Teenage Markets in the run-up to the festive season.

Would-be traders and entertainers aged between 13 and 23 can take advantage of a free market stall, or the chance to perform for shoppers at the quadruple events. 

The markets will take place at Netherton Arts Centre (Saturday 12th November), The Red House Glass Cone (Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th November) and The Moor Centre, Brierley Hill (Saturday 3rd December) as part of the town's Christmas light switch-on.

They follow the success of Dudley’s first Teenage Market, which occurred in Dudley in October 2015 and at the Red House Glass Cone, which ran earlier in July this year.

One person who has already benefitted from attending is 13-year old Lucy Walters, from Hagley, who took a stall at the Red House Glass Cone in July. The Haybridge High School pupil said:

“I have always dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur and seeing how successful I could be, and I realised that taking part in The Teenage Market would be my best chance for taking the first step. I loved the whole experience. 

"I sold shabby chic trinkets, sweets and home-made cakes. Not only did I sell lots of my stock, but I also picked up so many tips on things like how to talk to customers. Taking part is a fantastic opportunity to develop business, marketing and selling skills. 

“I’m really looking forward to the next Teenage Markets and I’d advise anyone else who is wondering whether they should do it to give it a try. I just said to myself, what’s the worst that could happen? It worked for me.”

As well as traders, young performers are encouraged to make the most of this opportunity.  Performing and busking slots are available for anyone who would like to hone their skills in front of an audience.  Singers, dancers, street entertainers, magicians, or anyone else with a talent to entertain, is encouraged to apply. Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said:

“I am delighted that we are running more Teenage Markets. They provide excellent opportunity for young people to learn about marketing, selling and performing, while gaining confidence and independence.

“Scores of teenagers have already enjoyed being part of the borough’s Teenage Market success and I hope that even more will reap the benefit this winter.”

The Teenage Markets are being hosted as part of Dudley Council’s Love Your Community focus. To book a stall or a performing slot, go to www.theteenagemarket.co.uk.