If you enjoy your produce fresh from the farm, then why not pop along to the Wallington Farmers' Market this Saturday.

And you could be helping the environment at the same time, as the events are always eco-friendly.

Farmers markets, which were first held in the UK in 1997, are where producers bring their own goods for sale direct to the public.

Based on the tradition of smallholders selling directly to their local town or village, the farmers' market is not a new idea but has taken off, with many areas now holding a regular seasonal market.

The benefits to the consumer of such events are numerous easy access to fresh, locally grown and reared produce and the opportunity to meet producers and gain specialist advice from them in person.

And not only will the consumer benefit from fresh meat, vegetables, and cheese among a host of other items for sale, but the impact on the environment is also reduced.

Excess packaging of goods is easily avoided and goods have to be transported over shorter distances, which helps to cut down on vehicle pollution and noise.

The Wallington Farmers' Market is held on the second Saturday of each month at the Old Town Hall and Library Gardens in Woodcote Road, Wallington, from 9.30am until 1.30pm.

For more details call 020 8647 4291.

July 10, 2002 12:00