Kingsbridge

The Kingsbridge Farmers' Market has scooped Devon Life's coveted 2006 Best Farmers' Market award.

The monthly farmers' market was highly-praised by the popular lifestyle magazine, particularly for its perfect location on the town's waterfront, nearby parking, disabled access, and for its wide range of quality local produce.

The Devon Life judges report read: "Kingsbridge Farmers' Market has a great location with ample parking and excellent disabled access.

"The market offers a good diversity of stalls selling a wide range of good quality local produce."

The market is organised by South Hams Agricultural Forum (SHAF) in partnership with South Hams District Council (SHDC).

Carol Trant, SHDC business support officer: "We've been the Cinderella runner-up before, so it's particularly nice to have won this year."

SHDC business support officer Carol Trant said: "We've been the Cinderella runner-up before, so it's particularly nice to have won this year.

"Kingsbridge Market is always a real team effort between the market manager, local farmers who work hard to set-up the market and the producers and most importantly the locals who support us twelve months of the year.

"And the community has really taken this to their hearts and will support every market, come run or shine!"

Only official farmers markets can be entered for the award. This means that only producers selling their own produce from within a 30 mile radius of the market can showcase their produce.

SHAF's John Yeoman added: "The market offers a great outlet for local agricultural businesses that are looking to survive in a challenging economic climate.

"It also offers the best chance for consumers to meet with producers and discuss their goods face-to-face. The market acts as a shop window for the whole of agriculture, encouraging consumers to always look for local produce so helping more farmers."

The Kingsbridge Farmers' Market has grown in popularity in recent years, attracting both local residents and visitors alike.

Traditionally held on the first Saturday of each month, the market offers a wide variety of high quality local produce, including local cheeses, organic seasonally vegetables, meats and baked goods.