PRESTON FARMERS’ MARKET will be held on the fourth Sunday of each month for the remainder of 2007, with two Christmas specials confirmed.
Event organisers, Preston Chamber of Trade, were given the green light by Preston City Council market bosses to stage the Farmers Market on a monthly basis following the success of the April and May events. The markets will take place on the Large Outdoor Covered Market from 9.30am till 2.30pm.
Chamber chiefs have already booked in two Christmas events on the 16th and 23rd December, with the 16th December market marking the arrival of the Thwaites Shire Horses complete with memorable Christmas livery and sleigh.
Joint Chief Executive of Preston Chamber of Trade, Nicholas Watson, said:
“Securing the Farmers’ Market on a permanent monthly basis is a great coup for the city and is another important step towards fulfilling the Chamber’s shared mission to make Preston a ‘Go To’ destination.
“The level of support from the local producers, the public and major retailers has been very pleasing.
“We would urge the public to support their local farmers’ market because of the high quality produce on sale that is carefully prepared, produced and packaged plus the range of entertainment on offer. There’s plenty to do all day long and you’ll get outstanding value for your money.”
Leader of Preston City Council, Councillor Ken Hudson, said:
“The Farmer’s Market is an extremely popular event and it’s good to see that it’s now becoming more of a permanent fixture in the city. The council is keen to support and promote this kind of event, which offers local people something different, while at the same time attracting visitors from further a field.
“Preston has a large rural population and it’s good to be able to support farmers’ economic situation by offering them a platform to sell their quality produce in the city centre. Farming is going through a period of low profitability and the council is pleased to be assisting farmers in maximising their income.”
The April and May events attracted approximately over 10,000 visitors and with the street entertainment, music and children’s entertainment set to remain, the Chamber of Trade predict that the Farmers’ Market could be a real jewel in Preston’s crown:
“We’d like Preston Farmers’ Market to be recognised as the best one in Lancashire with a diverse range of producers that act as a great draw for the local community and wider audiences too.
“It’s been particularly pleasing to see so many young people, families and ethnic minorities visiting and buying from the markets which indicates that this is a genuine community event that all can contribute to and enjoy,” added Mr Watson.
The dates of the future markets are Sunday 24th June, Sunday 22nd July, Sunday 26th August, Sunday 23rd September, Sunday 28th October, Sunday 25th November, Sunday 16th December (Christmas special with Thwaites Dray Horses), Sunday 23rd December (Christmas special).
The next market takes place on Sunday 24th June on the Large Outdoor Covered Market. For further details, please call 01772 277244.
