In a world of single-use plastic and buying food of unknown origin from faceless companies, more people are shedding this way of living and embracing a better way to buy.

Cowbridge Farmers Market are celebrating 30 years as a regular, well-known part of the Vale of Glamorgan community and we were happy to speak to Myfanwy Edwards about the market and why it’s so important to people and the environment.

Can you tell us a little more about Cowbridge Farmers’ Market?

Established in 2000, the markets have been held in Barry, Penarth and St Fagans but from January 2020 the market is held every Saturday in Cowbridge. It’s self supporting and is run by volunteers made up of the producers.

A farmers’ market is one of the best ways to connect with where your food comes from. Meeting the farmers and food artisans is a great opportunity to learn more about how and where food is produced. Shopping at the Vale Farmers’ Market enhances the environment, reducing packaging, waste and food miles. It supports the local economy, and with the traditional and organic methods employed by producers, helps maintain our beautiful countryside.

How many traders do you have?

We have 34 members and all our producers are within 35 miles of Cowbridge. Priority is given to local and primary producers with membership closely monitored to ensure a wide range of products. All adhere to our strict code of practice which protects the ethos of the market.

How many customers do you see each week?

Can’t say I know exactly. We see so many people coming to the market ever week. It’s always very busy, which is so great to see!

Do you have any traders that have been with the market since opening?

We have two stall holders who have been with us from the start. Cowbridge Country Markets; a co-operative of WI members, who provide home bakes and preserves. And Richard Edwards from Pwllywrach Farm, who sells Angus Beef and Welsh lamb produced on his farm just outside Cowbridge.

Over the years we have had hundreds of producers attend market and we are always looking for unique new producers to keep the market interesting and fresh.

Tell us more about the produce sold at the market.

The market is food and farm based products only. Although we have many regular stall holders, the produce changes on a weekly basis with the seasons.

Where is the market located?

The market is held in Arthur John’s Car Park on North Roath. We are very grateful to the John family who allow us to use their car park each week. They run a busy agricultural store and are very generous in their support of the market.

Cowbridge Farmers’ Market is a perfect example of people supporting local farmers. It’s not just important to start abandoning the wasteful, impersonal way of buying for the benefit of local suppliers, but is also essential in helping the environment by reducing travel miles and less wasteful plastic.

You can go down to visit Cowbridge Farmers’ Market every Saturday between 9am-1pm. Visit there website here for more information.