Shell out at new market (From Ledbury Reporter)

Shell out at new market

9:30am Friday 28th September 2012 in Ledbury

SMALL-SCALE poultry breeders and keepers in the Ledbury area have joined forces with other producers to set up their own public market every Saturday.

Fiona Whittle, of Hey Little Hen, Coddington, became disillusioned when her birds went under the hammer at livestock auctions for a fraction of their expected value.

She was also troubled by the stress on the birds, and the risk that just one sickly bird could spread disease.

Ms Whittle said: “Our idea is about the general public selling to the general public, cheaply, and with a nice jolly atmosphere.

“Not putting the birds into a noisy livestock market means they are less stressed and not subject to the same risk of disease.”

The first markets have taken place at Fromes Hill, but tomorrow the new venue will be the Trumpet Inn, on the Hereford Road, near Ledbury.

The market is open to sellers of local fresh produce, home-made foods, plants, crafts, equestrian equipment and “anything with an outdoor theme”.

A small charge is made to sellers, to cover administration costs.

Further details are available by calling Fiona on 01531 640993.