Food market allowed locals a chance to try something new

Originally published in the Barnsley Chronicle- print version, edition of May 1 2026

BARNSLEY town centre’s international food market returned to showcase dishes from around the world.

Locals took advantage of the sunny weather last weekend to enjoy the market.

The biannual event, held at the Glass Works, lasted from Thursday until Sunday, and it was hosted with support from Market Place Europe- responsible for organising and bringing food markets to towns and cities around the country.

The market provided a range of international cuisines, from street food to drinks with produce from local food businesses.

One of the businesses present was Foeyams, a Gambian cuisine stall run by Foday ‘Foe’ Janko and his wife. The couple decided to start their business during COVID to share their food and love for their culture, with Gambian cuisine being ‘rare’ in the UK.

He said: “We really enjoy the atmosphere here.

“We are like a massive family with all the different traders. We don’t just do traders’ discounts; we can go and eat somewhere else for free, and they can come and eat my food for free.”

The event- co-run by Barnsley Council- is set to return later in the year.

Councillor Robin Franklin, the cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture at the council, added:

“It’s fantastic to bring the international market back to the Glass Works again this year.

“We want everyone to experience the delicious flavours on offer.”