Hampshire Farmers' Markets for 2003

The programme has been extended from the sixty eight markets run during last year to an amazing eighty three markets to be held in Aldershot, Alton, Andover, Basingstoke, Farnborough, Fleet, Hythe, Odiham, Petersfield, Ringwood, Romsey, Southsea and Winchester.

Basingstoke and Southsea have increased the number of markets they hold to join Winchester in having monthly markets throughout the year.

Already numbers of stallholders booked to attend will ensure that Winchester will continue to be officially the largest Farmers' Market in the U.K. and many of the other venues now have waiting lists of producers wishing to attend as the popularity of the markets grows.

All the produce sold at a Hampshire Farmers' Market must come from Hampshire or within ten miles of the border and the producers themselves attend the markets to answer questions and assist with recipe suggestions. The aim is to provide an outlet for smaller producers to sell direct to the public whilst providing the public with fresh, local, quality, seasonal produce and a relaxed and traditional shopping experience.

The range of produce available includes free range beef, pork and lamb, oven ready game, freshly baked bread, fresh and smoked trout, free range eggs, cheeses, mountains of seasonal vegetables, beer, wine, honey, jams, cakes, chutneys and much more!

Hampshire Farmers' Markets were also the first markets in the country to be certified to the National Association of Farmers' Markets. The certification process involves the markets being independently inspected and recognises the high standards achieved.

Rob Hardy, Chairman of Hampshire Farmers' Markets Ltd. said "The positive impact of farmers' markets on small rural producers has been vital to many of the farmers and growers across Hampshire and this is due to the enormous amount of public support. Hampshire Farmers' Markets provide an essential outlet for many of the smaller local producers to sell their produce direct to the customer.

Many of the producers would not be in business today without farmers' markets and all the producers are very grateful to the public for their support and look forward to it continuing in 2003."

All Hampshire Farmers' Markets trade from 10am until 2pm. For further information on any of the Hampshire Farmers' Markets or to obtain a full list of dates and venues ring 01962 845135.