SHOPPERS at North Weald Airfield Market have been reassured it is in good health following reports that its owners had gone into liquidation.

A briefing to today's full council meeting shows that in January this year the market’s owners, Hughmark International, went into administration, and the regular Saturday event was almost cancelled.

But Epping Forest District Council has said the market, which is believed to be the largest of its kind in Europe, has now been transferred to a new company, Hughmark Continental Limited, and its future is secure.

Councillor Mitch Cohen said: "Other parts of Hughmark International's business were struggling but North Weald Market is very strong.

“I am delighted to see that it continues to trade at the airfield and provides a valuable service to local people in these difficult economic times."