Farmers’ market celebrates busiest day since its launch

The market, which is held in the bridge viewing area from 9am to 1pm, regularly attracts more than 5,000 visitors.

It now has all its pitches filled and managers are considering extending it into another car park to accommodate more.

Market manager Neil Marshall said he was delighted by the support the event had had from customers.

He said: “Shoppers have really got behind the market since our re-launch in April, and visitors are really passionate about supporting the quality local businesses that attend.

“Visitor numbers have been growing all summer and to meet rising demand, we have now expanded to the point where we can’t fit any more traders on-site without opening up an additional car park.”

He added: “The market is now the largest of its type in the region, and there is no better place to get hold of a huge range of the freshest local ingredients, direct from the producers and all at their seasonal best.”

The market, which is held on the first Sunday of each month, is accredited by the National Farmers’ Retail and Markets’ Association.

It features a range of stalls selling regionally produced food including a large selection of meat, vegetables, fruit, preserves, bread and cheese, as well as a range of local speciality produce. It also has craft stalls selling a wide selection of goods including handmade soaps, candles and bags.