A FARMERS’ market is to launch its own friends scheme.

Leaders of Durham City Farmers’ Market will launch their ‘Friends Of’ scheme at Durham City Food Festival, which begins on Thursday, October 20.

For £10 a year, friends will get a quarterly newsletter with features on local food producers and news of future events and shows, invitations to visit producers and opportunities to sample new products.

Market organiser Colin Wilkes said: "The Durham City Farmers’ Market has been running for over 11 years and during that time it has become an invaluable part of the city life, contributing greatly to the local economy.

"This new initiative is a great way for those who care about local food to show their support for their local market and its local producers."

Anyone wishing to join the scheme can do so at the Farmers’ Market, in Durham Market Place, on Thursday, October 20, from 9am, call Kathryn Potts on 01665-576148, visit neefm.org.uk or email: kathryn@neefm.org.uk