MEGHAN Markle lookalike Sarah Mhlanga paid a royal visit to Warrington Market today, Thursday, as part of a national campaign to support and shop local.

The 34-year-old, from Thelwall, who is said to resemble the Prince Harry's fiancé, met market traders and members of the public ahead of the royal wedding on Saturday.

Her visit marks the launch of the National Association of British Market Authorities (NAMBA), Love Your Local Market campaign which will run from today until May 31.

Now in its seventh year, NABMA's Love Your Local Market was started in 2012 and has now become an annual, two-week event.

It was started to highlight the importance of markets at the heart of towns, cities and communities and encourage people to get involved.

Chris Rosling-Josephs, NABMA president, said: "This year's global theme is Markets: Close to Your Heart. The main purpose of Love Your Local Market is to raise the profile of markets across the UK, encourage start-up businesses and increase young people's involvement in markets.

"As well as winning over the hearts of consumers this year NABMA will be aiming to get to the heart of what makes markets matter to their local communities and why people should show their appreciation for their market."

Warrington Market houses around 54 stalls selling products from fresh and takeaway food to clothing and household goods across two levels.

Traders moved into the temporary building in September, with work on the market's permanent home expected to be completed in 2019.

For more information visit loveyourlocalmarket.co.uk