Niche Market on Saturday August 29, will be the first public event at Launceston’s Albert Hall since COVID restrictions began in March.

Thirty-five makers, 12 never seen before, have been hand-picked and will have double the usual space to accommodate social distancing.

“This market will be COVID-safe and beautiful. An avenue of mature camellias will run down the centre of the hall to symbolise the optimism of spring,’’ Niche market manager Victoria Bayes said.

The market, a major fundraiser for disability services at StGiles, will be the first for 2020, after the cancellation of Easter Niche due to COVID.

“We want to give back and raise community spirit and speak to the strength of us all during these days. These are unique times,’’ Mrs Bayes said.

Guest makers will be Bronwyne Ballantyne and the team from the Tassie Face Mask Project who will run workshops during the day.

COVID-safe means:

• Single entry and exit through main, front doors of Albert Hall
• Names and mobile phone numbers collected by volunteers at entry point
• Volunteers in Niche aprons reminding shoppers to be socially distanced
• Sanitiser freely available on all stalls and at points around the Hall
• Cashless – remember to bring your card!!
• 250 shoppers on the floor at any one time