THE RUNNING of Abergavenny's produce markets is to merge with the county's other markets in a bid to boost tourism and an income for the authority.

Previously Abergavenny, Monmouth and Caldicot markets were administered by the authority's One Stop Shop, by running each as a separate entity.

But now, following a review of the situation, Monmouthshire County Council have said that they are to invest in an operating structure to combine the three authority-run markets by not only devising a practical business plan but were including them as part of Monmouthshire's Tourism and visitor attractions.

The council would promote the markets as part of the area's character and heritage as a county of market towns; a focus for social interaction and providing start up trading opportunities for new enterprises as well as providing a training ground for young entrepreneurs.

The report, discussed at last week's cabinet meeting, also suggested that an element of the food destination branding of Monmouthshire could be included in the promotional exercise.

The council's aim is to increase market income overall by 10-15 percent in the full year 2012/13.