Flying start for Farmers' Market

Market was a fairy tale despite missing stalls

The butcher did not turn up, the baker was in fine form and the candlestick maker continued to prove elusive. But Herne Bay's first farmers' market got off to a fine start – bar a few minor teething problems.

The market, held in United Church hall on Saturday, March 3, could now be extended to three weekends per month. Organiser Vanessa Hill said:

"It was a solid start. A butcher who had promised to do a stall didn't turn up but we had game, fruit and veg, cakes, fantastic breads and homemade pies. I do want to have the traditional butcher, baker and candlestick maker, so if anyone makes good candles, they should get in touch."

Mrs Hill is also talking to Pier Trust bosses about staging summer markets on the pier platform. The next farmers' market is on Saturday, March 17.

Call Mrs Hill on 07740 586010 if you are interested in having a stall.

HB Farmers' Market shaping up well

Stall holders lining up for market plan

Plans for a farmers' market in the Bay are gaining pace, with organiser Vanessa Hill already lining up stall holders.

She received a flurry of calls after being featured in last week's Times and plans to hold the first of the fortnightly markets on Saturday March 3 in the Methodist church hall in the High Street.

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Herne Bay Farmers' Market

Now this is a fantastic idea, and I wish Vanessa every success. This would be a great opportunity for local producers to sell locally, and as Vanessa points out, an opportunity to get a foot on the retail ladder without the costs of opening a shop.

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A cook who believes the Bay is ripe for a farmers' market is hoping to harvest enough stalls to start her own venture.

Vanessa Hill has secured a venue and a date for the first market – Saturday, March 3, at Herne Bay United Church Hall in the High Street – and now needs sellers to sign up.

The mum-of-two, who works as a chef in a care home, said:

"I had the idea just before Christmas. I'd been to Whitstable farmers' market and found it really crammed. I'd like to go back to the basics, with local produce from small suppliers, from vegetables to breads, or cider and home-made jams.

I'd also like to get youngsters involved. There are so many talented young people out there with great ideas. But they wouldn't have a hope in hell of being able to open a shop, with all the expenses involved."

Are you interested in having a stall? Call Vanessa on 07740 586010.