This year marks a special anniversary for Hampshire Farmers’ Markets – 20 years of bringing the best of the county’s produce to the High Street.

Since the first market in Winchester, Hampshire Farmers’ Markets have gone from strength-to-strength and now hold nine markets in towns and cities across the county each month.

“2019 is shaping up to be a good year already,” said David Woodroofe, chairman at Hampshire Farmers’ Markets. “Winchester was where we held our very first market back in 1999 and it is here where our celebrations will kick-off in May. We’re also very excited to announce we will be hosting a special event at Leckford Farm Shop and nursery near Stockbridge in June. All I can say is keep a close watch on all our social media channels to see what festivities we have in store to celebrate 20 years at all of our market locations.”

The organisation has now released its all-important market dates for 2019.

Every weekend of the year visitors can discover the delights of local food and drink, as well as gifts, crafts and plants for the garden. All members must source at least 20 per cent of their ingredients from Hampshire or within a 20-mile radius. Plus any produce grown, reared or raised must spend at least 50 per cent of its time with the producer. Accountability is important to the organisation and visitors to markets can be assured everything is fully traceable.

Mr Woodroofe continued: “2018 was a great year for new markets and new members joining Hampshire Farmers’ Markets and we’re hoping 2019 will be even better. There are even more brilliant producers to meet at your local market.

“You can buy everything from chocolate to cheese and salad to strawberries – there’s no reason not to eat seasonal and local. Plus supporting your local producers means you’re also supporting your High Street – something that’s becoming crucially important for the businesses in all our towns and cities.”

This month’s markets include January 12 in Alton, January 13 in Winchester, January 19 in Emsworth, January 20 in Southsea, and January 26 in Ringwood.