West Sussex urged to '˜Love Your Local Market'

Launched by the National Association of British Market Authorities in 2012, the celebratory fortnight runs from Tuesday May 17 to Tuesday May 31 and was created to recognise the unique appeal of markets following increasing pressure from internet and out of town shopping.

In the last three years the campaign has encouraged the markets industry to supply new traders with 10,000 pitches.

Louise Goldsmith, leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “Market days have traditionally assembled communities from month to month for an alternative social shopping experience. Local markets have long provided a stage for traders to promote their home grown produce and encourage visitors to buy local, all the while supporting the West Sussex economy.”

The UK local market place is currently experiencing a revival in numbers. Visitors to farmers’ markets in May will be greeted by stalls displaying an array of seasonal foods including; asparagus, watercress, gooseberry, elderflower, spring onion, new potatoes, crab, rocket, radish and lamb.

Local markets taking part in LYLM can share details of events on social media using the hashtag #LYLM2016 or on the website at www.loveyourlocalmarketgb.com

They can also discuss the campaign and make a pledge using the #LYLM hashtag.

Mrs Goldsmith added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to champion local produce and encourage more people to sample all that West Sussex has to offer in the many local markets across our county.

“If you’re planning an event for LYLM, we’d love to share the details – let us know via Twitter or Facebook.”

For more information visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/LYLM2016

The latest edition of Taste West Sussex, the magazine which promotes West Sussex food and drink and the countryside, is out in May with a feature on markets for LYLM.

For more follow the Taste Twitter account at @TasteWestSussex

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