Transition town Guildford is holding a really free market outside the mechanics’ hall in Guildford on Sunday, November 24.

The really free market is a place for residents to bring items they want to rehome and take home items others have brought, all completely free.

Only running for one hour from 9am to 10am, the market will be open to anyone in the community, with the goal of creating a free community space where sustainability and generosity are promoted and encouraged.

Coordinator Jane Genovese said the event had a range of benefits to the community.

“Really free markets are part of a worldwide movement that challenges conventional free market economy concepts by offering an event where everything is genuinely free,” she said.

“It invites people to bring along items they no longer need – whether that’s clothing, toys, books or household goods – and they’re free to take items others have brought.

“It’s a space where money, bartering and haggling are replaced by generosity and community spirit.”

She said the vision was to create a more connected and sustainable community.

“By rehoming items, we’re extending their lifespan and reducing waste, which ultimately helps the planet, but it’s also about improving community well-being,” she said.

“The really free market provides an accessible way for people to acquire some items they may need or want without spending, which is particularly meaningful during the current cost of living crisis.”

Typically, the volunteer crew sees between 50 and 100 shoppers come through the market in the hour it is open, and Ms Genovese said the short timeframe was important to balancing convenience and energy.

“People can pop by, perhaps grab a coffee or go for a walk around Guildford, and then return just before we pack up if they need to collect any of their items that weren’t taken,” she said.

“Coming along to the market doesn’t require a large time commitment but still fosters community engagement.”

Only items of high quality and in good condition will be accepted to the market and anything that is not taken by 10am must be taken home again by its original owner.

Ms Genovese said there were several reasons people flocked to the market and community events like it.

“People enjoy getting items for free, especially during tough economic times,” she said.

“A lot of the items at the market are in excellent condition, and it’s a great feeling to pick up something useful without spending any money.

“But beyond that, there’s a deeper sense of satisfaction in seeing items go directly to someone else who will use them.

“It’s a reminder that we’re all here to help each other and that, even in a small way, we can make a difference.”

Gates open at 8.50am for those with items to get rid of and the public at 9am.