Fareham Farmers' Markets will be bigger and better than last year, thanks to record bookings by stallholders.

Last year's markets, held in West Street, were a roaring success, with some stalls selling out by 10am.

And this year shoppers will be able to buy even more fresh local goods direct from producers.

Organiser Mike Blatch told the Echo: "We have reached a stage where we need to expand the area to accommodate more stalls.

"The markets have been incredibly popular. I think people like the idea of meeting the county's farmers and seeing what they have to offer, plus the fact the stallholders are very good at supplying samples and tasters."

He added that Hampshire County Council's strict guidelines force farmers to only sell their freshest fare.

"People can buy from these markets safe in the knowledge that what they get hasn't been stored or frozen for months on end. It's a bit like going back in time to the turn of the century when a market town like Fareham was the place to go for fresh food."

Organic meats, cheeses, jams, preserves, cakes and duck eggs are among the goods on offer at these Saturday markets.

Fresh locally-grown fruit and veg will also be on sale, along with specialist sausages and ice cream.

Hampshire pork farmers Dawn and Martindale said the market gave their business a huge boost as well as being great fun.

Dawn said: "We enjoyed selling direct to the customers. Holding these markets means they can buy our freshest produce and people seemed to have a real interest in us."

Tomorrow's market, starting at 9.30am, will be held in the Westbury car park near the museum. It will move to the Henry Cort millennium square in June.

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