FREE pitches at Boscombe Market are being offered to local entrepreneurs hoping to showcase their product or service.

The five pitches are being set aside as part of the First Pitch scheme, which will allow aspiring small business owners in the area to trade for 12 months at discounted rents, with support from the National Market Traders Federation.

Ward councillor Jane Kelly, cabinet member for partnerships and regeneration, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for local new businesses that are looking for the opportunity to establish themselves and showcase their products to local shoppers.

“I fully support this initiative, which complements the current ongoing work in Boscombe to help establish new creative businesses in the area.”

NMTF chief executive Joe Harrison said: “Many of our well-known brands started life on the markets and we know many people want to take that leap into starting their own business – First Pitch will give the support needed to bring a product or service to the market.”

Businesses selected as finalists will receive free NMTF membership, a market trader training guide and a mentor.

To get involved in the scheme, open to UK residents aged over-16 with less than six months experience of market trading, visit www.nmtf.co.uk. Applications must be in by April 19.