Tiverton Pannier Market is looking to give the town centre a much-needed boost this summer by launching an exciting new series of daytime events featuring live music, performances from local groups, street food, ice cream and a mobile bar.

The series, called Sounds of Summer, will run every Saturday lunchtime in August and September.

Darianna and the Lodgers, who have wowed local audiences with their unique Eastern European sound, are the star attraction on launch day on Saturday 7 August.

They will be teed up by new local drumming group Tivvy Samba.

There will be hand-crafted Chinese dumplings from West Country Dim Sum and ice cream made in Burlescombe with Bonne Bouche, served from a 70-year-old Citroen HY van called Margaux.

The Gin and Sin Co will be serving a range of local, artisan and other drinks from an old Sinclair horsebox called Huckleberry.

Sounds of Summer will showcase busking stars from midday to 2pm, with bands Byzantium Lane, The Dragonfly Club and Wonky Buzzard, solo singers Chris Ostler, Hannah Loibl and Peter Luke and award-winning trumpet player Luis Martelo all booked to perform across the eight weeks.

The music will follow street performances from 11.30am by the likes of Tiverton Signpost Club, Tiverton Amateur Operatic Society, Take Note Community Choir, Diamond Twirlers and In Harmony.

Mexican and international food, gourmet hot dogs and pizza will all be on the menu.

Jim Bray, the new market manager, said:

“After such a difficult time for so many over the last 18 months, we were keen to give everyone a lift by offering something a bit different and an opportunity for the community to come together.

“Live music is a great healer and we’ve put together an eclectic mix of busking stars, including popular local bands and professional acts who are all itching to get out there and perform in front of an audience again.

“We’re also delighted to offer a platform for local music, dance and drama groups to show off their talents.

“By throwing in a diverse mix of street food, some of the biggest names in ice cream in the area and quirky mobile bars serving local drinks and more well-known brands, coupled with extra seating and tables, we’re confident this will be a popular addition to the excellent 20-plus market stalls already here on a Saturday.

“We’ll be looking at more events and promotions like this in future to enhance the experience of visitors to the market.”

Follow the market on Facebook for regular updates and posters showing the line-up each Saturday, as well as opportunities to win free food and drink vouchers for each event.