Exeter Farmers' Market gets silver stamp of approval

Exeter Farmers’ Market has been given a silver award in this year’s South West Flavour Awards organised by Taste of the West.

The market, which is organised by Exeter City Council, takes place every Thursday at the junction of Fore Street and South Street and opens for business from 9am until 2pm. Produce offered for sale includes meat, poultry, fish, organic vegetables, bread, cheese and eggs.

The judges praised the excellent service offered by the stallholders and were impressed by the atmosphere at the market.

Cllr Rosie Denham, Lead Councillor for Economy & Tourism, said: "I am delighted that the market has been recognised in this way. It is a testimony to the dedication of the producers who attend every week and to City Council staff who organise the market and build and take down the stalls. We support the market as it gives people the chance to buy local produce directly from those who are responsible for producing it and that has to be a good thing for all involved."

One of the producers at the market is Shillingford Organics. Owner of the business, Martyn Bragg, commented: "I am really pleased to hear that the Farmers' Market has won this award.  We are a small organic vegetable producer based on the edge of the city and Exeter Farmers' Market is really important to us as a major outlet for our produce. The market is busy and bustling with a very friendly atmosphere."

The market producers have been working with officers in the Council’s Markets & Halls section to look at ways of further improving it. One of the initiatives recently introduced is occasional Saturday markets in addition to the weekly Thursday Market.  

David Lewis, who manages the team responsible for the market, said: "We are very happy with this award but we need to look at how we can make it gold next time! The producers have recently become much more involved with the running of the market and have realised that they have a big part to play in making the market work. I would like to thank them all, particularly their representatives, for their positive attitude and continued support."

Exeter Farmers' Market is always looking for suitable new producers to join, and anyone interested should call the market office on 01392 665480 or email markets@exeter.gov.uk