A LOCAL makers market that aims to raise funds for rural mental health support is returning.

Last year, friends Lizzie Ross and Becca Melville joined forces to organise the event for the first time.

After raising £600 for The Farming Community Network and Blackdog Outdoors, they decided to bring back the market this year.

More than 30 local crafters will be at the event at Hexham Auction Mart on Saturday, November 5 from 10.30am until 5.30pm.

Goods on offer will include metal animal sculptures, children's clothing, candles, alcohol and confectionery.

There will also be a tombola, with all proceeds going towards the Northumberland Recovery College, which aims to make it easy for everyone to access learning and activities that promote wellbeing and good mental health.

Lizzie, who runs Stony Pasture which makes knitwear and runs alpaca experiences for children, said while she hopes people are feeling more comfortable talking about mental health, she still believes there is a stigma around the subject.

The market is being held on the same day as the Hexham Round Table Fireworks event.

"We're hoping to catch some people coming in for the bonfire and get them to do some Christmas shopping before they go on to support the town centre," said Lizzie.