Farmers markets bring such good cheer
Dec 12 2008 by Francesca Craggs, The Journal
THERE’S nothing more festive than strolling around a Christmas market. And with markets across the region selling an array of festive treats, you really will be spoiled for choice.
From a wide choice of Christmas meats, to Northumberland cheeses and freshly-baked pies, Durham’s Farmers’ Market offers a great choice of local produce from across the region.
Established for over 10 years, Durham Farmers’ Market is a much valued feature of the city’s calendar, taking place in the attractive setting of the Market Place on the third Thursday of each month.
It plays host to over 20 stallholders from the local area and features regular guest producers and craftspeople.
Durham Markets’ managing director Colin Wilkes, said: “Durham Farmers’ Market features the finest local independent farm produce from across the county.
“Not only can you find out what’s in season and get ideas for new recipes, but by shopping at the market once a month, you can pick up good quality produce within hours of it being picked, reducing food miles and supporting the local economy.
“Our traders are hugely experienced independents who are real experts in their field, and the variety and quality of their offering makes the farmers’ market a truly alternative way to shop.”
Durham’s next Farmers’ Christmas Market will take place on Thursday, December 18 and will feature a full range of festive meats, vegetables, Christmas cakes, mince pies, cheese, local bottled beers and a range of handmade Christmas gifts.
Durham Farmers’ Market takes place from 9am to 3.30pm on the third Thursday of the month.
Future dates for the New Year are Thursday, January 15 and Thursday, February 19, 2009.
‘Live local, love local’ is the slogan for Hexham Farmer’s Market. This Christmas you can find the very best of local, fresh, seasonal produce at this award-winning event.
The finest locally reared meats are available, including organic and rare breed beef, pork, lamb and mutton.
There is a selection of locally smoked fish, game and poultry and many varieties of local cheeses including from sheep and goats.
Local vegetable growers will have a good selection of seasonal produce including Brussels sprouts, tasty organic potatoes, and delicious parsnips.
Many chefs agree that rape seed oil is the best for roasting perfect potatoes, try some from Yellowfields Oil, grown and cold pressed in Northumberland.
You will find a selection of breads, pastries, cakes and biscuits, delicious Christmas cakes, traditional puddings and delectable chocolate desserts.
If you prefer something a little hot and skilfully spiced then delicious home-made Indian meals provide an easy meal to reheat at home, with a choice for vegetarians too.
There is a tempting range of pickles, chutneys, mustards and chilli sauces.
Home made soaps and lotions make an ideal gift, and beer brewed in Allendale is a delicious way to add to the Christmas cheer.
Locally made oak baskets are also available, perfect for your Christmas hamper gifts full with delicious farmers’ market produce.
Everything is grown, raised or produced within 50 miles of Hexham.
For a full list of producers and dates for markets in 2009 visit the website at www.hexhamfarmersmarket.co.uk
