BUDDING small business owners are being invited to apply for five free pitches at Boscombe Market.

Boscombe Market has teamed up with the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) to encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to start up a business on the market.

Through a scheme called First Pitch, supported by Bournemouth council, traders can enjoy 12 months discounted rent at Boscombe Market and receive personalised support from the NMTF.

First Pitch is open to UK residents aged over 16 with less than six months experience of market trading. Interested applicants need to apply by April 19, 2013 via www.nmtf.co.uk.