THE Farmers’ Market has unveiled a fresh look with new stalls and branding.

The re-launch was marked with music by the Eagley Brass Band and a cooking demonstration by local chef Mike Harrison of the Zest Deli. It follows a formal takeover of the running of the popular market by Bolton Council following a one year contract with Group Geraud.

Raffael Tuccilla, Bolton Council markets’ manager, said: “We wanted to turn the Farmers’ Market around and make it bigger and better. We are looking to this style of market in other parts of the borough such as Horwich.

“We want stallholders to be a part of other events in Bolton, for example when we have the street entertainers. Farmers’ Markets not only support local producers but also encourage healthy eating.”

Regular and new stallholders displayed their wares — an array of locally sourced fresh fruit and vegetables, quality meats, speciality breads, cheeses, home-baked cakes, chutneys and jams and even handmade soap and body care products.

Margaret Lees, of Park Farm in Bury, said: “We hope this new look will attract more shoppers to support local producers like myself.

“It looks good and through Farmers’ Market we build up a rapport with the customers and find out what they want and how we can provide it.”

Regular visitor to the market, Ann Wilson, from Kearsley, said: “At the market you can get fresh quality food and it is more important now, given the credit crunch, to support local businesses and producers.”

Among those sampling the goods was Bolton Mayor Cllr Anthony Connell.

He said: “The market has a new image and looks good. Markets like this cut down on the distance food travels and reduces the carbon footprint, which people are concerned about.”

The market will continue to take place every fourth Sunday of the month in Victoria Square, from 10am to 2pm.