Weekly market now bigger and better

Kate Brown (8), of Bluff, buys some Russian fudge from stallholders Sarah Henderson (left) and...
Kate Brown (8), of Bluff, buys some Russian fudge from stallholders Sarah Henderson (left) and Adrienne Lategan (both 13). The girls also made toffee apples and truffles and sold all their stock within two hours of the market opening. PHOTO: LYNDA VAN KEMPEN
Asparagus and salmon, dog treats and gluten-free goodies were among the fare on offer as the Cromwell Farmers' and Craft market opened for the season yesterday.

It will be open weekly, extending four weeks longer than usual and finishing at Easter.

''That's in response to the public, who wanted it to continue a bit longer,'' newly appointed marketing manager Emma Maddox said.

To encourage patrons to ''make a day of it'', tables and chairs have been set up in the market venue - the historic precinct - and picnic blankets are also available, Mrs Maddox said.

A series of ''themed'' markets will also bring some extra colour to the event.

The first one, a children's market, will take place next month. About 30 stallholders were involved in yesterday's market, attracting a steady stream of browsers and buyers.

''A lot of our regular, loyal stallholders are back and we've got some new ones coming on board as well,'' Mrs Maddox said.

Her role is one of two new paid positions.

Megan Bailey has been appointed administration manager.

Market committee member Jill Cameron said the roles were a result of the continuing expansion of the market. Because of the growth and evolution of the market, there was too much work for volunteers to do.

The name change reflected the greater diversity in the market, which expanded last year to include craft stalls as well as the traditional produce stalls.

''The change proved to be such a success, bringing in a new group of people, the committee decided to continue with it this season,'' she said.

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