New Market Chairman for Truro and Falmouth
Truro Farmers Market, which is entering its 18th year, has announced the appointment of a new Chairman to oversee the development of the popular weekly markets, which take place in both Truro and Falmouth.
Mr. Kim Courtauld of Vicarage Farm has taken over at the head of a strengthened committee, which is dedicated to maintaining the quality and diversity of local food and craft available at market.
Kim studied at agricultural college in Scotland and worked in rural areas across the UK as a farmer and gamekeeper; he has farmed at Wendron near Helston for 16 years and has been selling eggs, lamb, beef and turkey at various markets across Cornwall since 2000.
The committee will also be enhanced by the edition of new member Graham Bradshaw of Cornish Sea Salt, who will provide event management expertise to the group.
The new Chairman began his tenure by thanking his predecessor Nigel Ekins, saying: “Nigel has given the market many long years of service, and understands how it operates better than anyone. As he is continuing on the committee I will be turning to him regularly for help and advice.”
Kim is positive about the future of the market, despite the challenges from out-of-town stores and online shopping.
He explained: “Farmers markets have gone through a cycle – support tailed off a little while ago but it has now returned with renewed vigour. We have a very loyal following and it’s particularly good to see the younger generation, including students in Falmouth, shopping at market regularly.”
The market showcases a larger range of local artisan manufacturers than ever before – many of whom have a very professional approach to branding and marketing – however the committee are still keen to hang on to the genuine farmers who grow great fruit and vegetables and rear animals on non-intensive farms.
With numbers of applications growing, the market maintains strict criteria to ensure that food miles are low and quality is high, and that a diverse selection of produce is on offer.
Kim says: “We are keen to hear from potential traders and are interested in new ideas. The market has always been a great incubator for fledgling food, drink and craft projects and we want to continue to offer a platform for budding entrepreneurs to get in front of local consumers.”
The Farmers Market takes place every Saturday and Wednesday on Lemon Quay in Truro, with a regular market every Tuesday on The Moor in Falmouth.
Visit www.trurofarmersmarket.co.uk for more information, or follow the market on Twitter at @TruroFarmersMkt