Rugby is the latest town to join the craze for farmers’ markets, where traders can sell local produce and shoppers know they are putting money into the local economy.

The events are well established in south Warwickshire, running on a rota in Kenilworth, Warwick, Leamington and Stratford, and so there is one every weekend.

Now Rugby is joining in, but going for a weekday - running from 9am to 2pm on the fourth Thursday of each month.

The first will be held on 24 August. Organisers pledge the ‘freshest produce available’ will be on sale.

The goods on offer will range from fruit and vegetables to wine and cheeses. The new market is being operated by Town and Country and is accredited by Warwickshire Farmers’ Markets.

Robin Richter, the town centre manager, said:

“We believe the people of Rugby will support this market. It is an excellent opportunity to give backing to local farmers and we hope it will breathe life back into the market area.”

James Pivot, coordinator for Warwickshire Farmers’ Markets, said:

“We are very excited about this new market. We have had a lot of interest from local people and we are sure that will be a great success.

“As the produce is coming straight from the farmer, it will be good quality and very fresh.”

Only local people can sell at the farmers markets. The rules say the product or produce must originate within 30 miles of the market venue.

The town has already a general market in the Gas Street area on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays. Traders have been pushing for some time for a move to the busier streets around the Clock Tower.

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