Knaresborough's re-launched farmers' market set to run throughout 2017

The town’s previous long-standing farmers’ market was discontinued due to lack of attendance, but the re-launched market has been met with a successful turnout.

The return of the market has been implemented by a dedicated working group on Knaresborough Town Council but is being run by the Otley Town Partnership (OTP).

Peter Heald, from OTP said: “We got some great reports back from the stall holders who said there were a lot of people there.

“The plan is to roll it out as a regular event throughout 2017.

“The regulars tend to come every month so that means it is sustainable from the stall holders point of view and it improves the offers to Knaresborough customers too.”

Previously it had been run on a Sunday, but now the market is held on the third Saturday of each month.

Peter said: “I think there has been recently a move back for people to shop for small amounts rather then the big shop in supermarkets

“People prefer food they know is locally sourced - it’s locally produced from local suppliers, so that’s quite an important issue. The spin off is when people come into town they do a bit more shopping. If it encourages more people to shop local and that can only be a good thing.”

Councillor James Monaghan (Lib) has been leading the working group behind the return of the market.

He said: “There was some scepticism whether the farmers’ market would be successful when I put forward a proposal to bring it back, but our council working group have worked really hard to make it happen.

“We are all really pleased about the positive feedback from stall holders and market visitors. Attendance at the first two markets has been great.

“Confirming the farmers market for next year at this early stage in the trial is a real vote of confidence in Knaresborough.”

The next market will run on Saturday November 19 from 10am - 3pm on Market Place and Peter said “there will be plenty for people to fill their stockings with.”