PRESS RELEASE
19/8/26
Local to Ludlow Market Shortlisted for National Recognition.
The Local to Ludlow Producers’ Market has been shortlisted by for the prestigious national ‘Best Farmers Market of Year’, having impressed the judges.
Organised by the Farm Retail Association (FRA), the Awards are judged by fellow farm retailers and celebrate the very best in British farm retail. In an era dominated by online shopping, farmers markets provide a unique experience in the heart of villages, towns and cities up and down the country, bringing communities together, supporting local producers and contributing to the economy. Three farmers markets that are contributing so much to their local communities and producers have been shortlisted
Ben Loughrey, Chair of the Farm Retail Association, said: “Our Farmers Market of the Year 2027 Finalists showcase the very best of local food and produce. Throughout the year, these markets give shoppers the chance to buy fresh seasonal food, meet the people who produce it and support local businesses.”
The market, which is independently managed by the Local to Ludlow Community Interest Company, celebrated 25 years of successful trading last year.
Market Manager Tish Dockerty says, “Everyone here at Local to Ludlow are delighted to have been recognised by the Farm Retail Association as one of their finalists in the national Farmers Market of the Year Awards. We are looking forward to welcoming the judges to our town and the Local to Ludlow Producers’ Market. We are excited to have the opportunity to share the atmosphere at our lovely market which hosts some of the finest food, drink and craft and art in the region.”
The Farm Retail Association states that what makes farmers markets so special is the experience they create. They bring communities together, support local producers and give people a stronger connection to where their food comes from. The FRA recognise a fantastic group of finalists who continue to champion local food.
The judges were impressed by the strength of this year’s finalists, each demonstrating a clear commitment to excellence, strong support for producers and a well-defined market identity. The shortlisted markets stood out for their high standards, effective management and ability to create thriving destinations that continue to evolve while staying true to their values.
The 2027 Farmers Market of the Year finalists are:
- Creake Abbey Farmers' Market, Norfolk
- Local to Ludlow Producers' Market, Shropshire
- Stroud Farmers' Market Gloucestershire.
The Local to Ludlow Producers’ Market was one of the first UK farmers markets and traders need to grow, breed, brew or make the goods themselves within 30 miles of Ludlow. The Producer’s Market is every 2nd and 4th Thursday throughout the year on Ludlow’s traditional marketplace, Castle Square. With over forty stalls it’s the largest regular farmers’ market in the Marches, also having a reputation for being the friendliest.
The familiar ‘three green stars’ Local to Ludlow logo is actually three tomato tops. It is trademarked and signifies produce that is locally grown or products made from local ingredients. The ‘Local to Ludlow’ green bags feature the logo and can be seen all over town, with over twelve thousand sold since 2005!
For more information please contact:
Tish Dockerty, Market Manager 01584 872043/07985218727