The relaunched Victoria Market in Hamilton has been given a boost that will see vendors allowed to set up their stalls for free from now until the end of the year.

"It is our sincere belief that Victoria Market will be a beneficial addition to the North East Hamilton Empowerment Zone.

"There are so few places for vendors to sell and for customers to purchase truly unique Bermudian goods, especially in the winter months," said Michelle Khaldun, general manager of the Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation.

The development corporation has agreed to sponsor the market vendors for the remainder of the year.

It means vendors will not need to pay the $15 a week fee to set up a tent and sell their goods in an allotted space at the market, which is held on Saturdays in the parking lot across from the People's Pharmacy on Victoria Street.

As the market falls within the economic empowerment zone and is aligned with the "free market vendor" initiative, the Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation has stepped in to pay vendors' fees until December 31.

It is a move the corporation hopes will encourage more vendors to become involved and also draw more customers.

One of the founders of the market, Kelli Thompson said: "Victoria Market is important to Bermudian culture as a whole. It is critical to have pride in our heritage and traditions.

"We are looking for anyone out there with talent and an entrepreneurial spirit.

"We are especially hoping to get seniors out as vendors, as they are the ones who still maintain some of the old Bermudian handicraft traditions."

Anyone interested in becoming a vendor at the market should contact Kelli Thompson on 504-4448.