Local team gets ready to launch the first Thames Ditton Farmers' Market in October. Mark the date in your diaries and make sure you get involved!
At last, after years of debate amongst residents, retailers and businesses the Thames Ditton Farmer’s Market has been given the green light by Elmbridge Borough Council. Back in 2012 the initiative proved its legs after a comprehensive survey showed over 90% of the community welcomed the idea, but the initiative fell at the first furlong when the High Street proved impractical due to the narrowness of its road and pavements. It seemed a non-starter until Mick Pearson, landlord of the George & Dragon announced he’d gladly give over his spacious pub car park for a once a month event and bearing in mind its prime location in the High Street, the team behind the FM (now with Mick and his partner Megan on board) knew they were back in the race.
At the time of writing it is hoped that the first Thames Ditton Farmers’ Market will take place on Saturday 24th October and thereafter every 4th Saturday in the month from 9am-1pm. There are plans for up to 26 stalls selling a fantastic range of fresh, local produce including meat, fish, dairy products, bread, cakes, biscuits, preserves, sauces, artisan products, etc etc.
Run by volunteers along not-for-profit principles, the market will be guided by three key principles: to help boost local businesses, to create a community event to bring people together and to raise money for local charities and causes.
Above all the Thames Ditton Farmers’ Market aims to support the shops and businesses in the High Street. We’ve looked at the award winning Surbiton Farmers’ Market in Maple Road and seen how this fantastic venture does just that.
On market days, Sarah Taylor, of Shoes At Last, 81 Maple Road confirms her takings shoot up 10% while the atmosphere in the area, now known as Maple village, is “much more vibrant.”
The cafes, pubs and restaurants, do even better, says David Jacobson, the current chairman of Surbiton Farmer’s Market. These are comfortably packed out on market days, often doubling their usual customer numbers”.
In Thames Ditton local businesses will be encouraged to take stalls at the market or do special promotions on their premises encouraging market-goers to visit the rest of the high street. In addition it’s hoped that the market will represent an opportunity for people to meet up with friends and enjoy some quality time out from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Now that’s got to be something worth cheering about – we’ll keep you posted!
Want more info/interested in volunteering please email: info@thamesdittonfarmersmarket.com
Tricia W. Bland
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