A COMMUNITY farmers market set up more than 15 years ago has seen a surge in visitor numbers after turning to digital and social media to promote its services.

Abbey Leys Farmers Market, in High Legh, has worked with Reaseheath College to grow its digital platforms in a bid to become one of the country’s most modern and popular.

With the farm and shop open all year round, the market takes place on the first Sunday of each month except January.

Janet Harrison, location manager at Abbey Leys, said: “Whilst we have a dedicated base of loyal customers who visit every month, it’s wonderful to be able to communicate with a new audience, who have a real interest in sustainable produce and supporting their local community.

“We hope to further develop our web presence over the next six months and become the north west’s most popular farmer’s market.

“It’s an ambition which doesn’t seem that difficult to achieve, with the continued support of the Cheshire community.”

Beth Chinn, ERDF business coordinator at Reaseheath, said: “It has been a pleasure to work with the community of volunteers at Abbeys Leys. To see them benefit so directly from the advice and support provided through our SME growth programme has been wonderful.

“Our fully funded support, which is tailored to the needs of individual businesses, has really enabled Abbey Leys to take the next step with their online development and attract a new and wider audience who have a keen interest in farming and local produce.

"We know they’ve not only attracted new customers, but also new stalls, so it really has been a huge success.”

Based in High Legh, Cheshire, the market takes place on the first Sunday of every month and is led by a community of volunteers, who feel passionately about local, fresh produce with low food miles.

Janet continued: “Abbey Leys Farm and shop is open all year round, but the market only takes place once a month and really does bring together the local farming community.

"Our stalls are overflowing with fresh, organic crops and all products sold are either made or produced locally. Often the market is the only place they can be purchased.

“For November, we have some award-winning dairy produce on sale, new stalls who will be trading for the first time and craft activities for children to truly keep the whole family entertained. We even welcome dogs, as long as they don’t chase the farmer’s chickens!”

Abbey Leys Farmers Market takes place on Peacock Lane, High Legh.

To find out more about the community farmers market at Abbey Leys, visit farma.org.uk/members/view/abbey-leys-farm-farmers-market/