The Midsomer Norton Farmers’ Markets held on the first Saturday of the month throughout the summer will be awash with sunshine, music, strawberries, cider, apple juices and a full range of BBQ items, cheeses, baked goods and plants – all produced by the folk selling to you on the day.

The Hollies Garden location lends itself to performers, and the July 7th market welcomes Coleford duo, ‘Oak and Thorn’, whose unique take on traditional folk ballads and their own original songs, with many local references, have helped them to build up a strong local fan base.

Of the very many local producers who attend, Cliff Besley is one of the few remaining Cheddar Strawberry growers – and each year, queues form when his stall makes an appearance!

Customers tell us that to experience local Cheddar strawberries, sun ripened and picked fresh for immediate sale, will ensure that you’ll never touch a supermarket strawberry again!

Another of the regulars are Wookey goat farm, who have also developed a large following with their range of milk, cheeses, meats and soaps; many customers swear by the milk being more digestible than cow’s milk and helping everything from acne to eczema. The meat is tasty and low in cholesterol and the cheese is extremely delicious! They have also adopted the use of veg-ware packaging which is 100% compostable – and to top it all, they run an eco-friendly campsite in their spare time!

The market also provides an opportunity for local community groups to raise awareness about their projects, and this month is no exception; in fact, we are helping to promote three worthy causes.

Laurel Farm Kindergarten, in Carlingcott, will be providing children’s activities, whilst raising awareness about kindergarten provision for families who may be interested in the Steiner-based philosophy. The Lions Club and Time is Precious will also be promoting upcoming events!

Details of each market are available by signing up for the monthly newsletter at: www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk or by following on Facebook. The Farmers’ Market takes place at the Hollies Gardens, Midsomer Norton, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.