GREAT LOCAL PRODUCE

We are becoming ever more concerned about the food we eat � whether it is fresh, wholesome and produced in an ecologically friendly way. Knowing where produce comes from is an increasingly important job for today's discerning housewife, so what better than to talk to the people who know � the breeders, growers and producers. Here, in the area's farmers' and local produce markets, is where you'll find them.

Borderway

Borderway Mart, Rosehill, Carslisle; 2 nd Saturday in month, 9.30am-1pm

A wide selection of local foods and crafts is on offer in the Borderway Mart Exhibition Hall, only two minutes from M6 junction 43. Organised by Harrison & Hetherington and Carlisle City Council.

Brampton

Moot Hall, Brampton; last Saturday in month, 9.30am-1.30pm

The early 19 th century Moot Hall plays host to this small but varied farmers' market. A variety of local produce, including organic meats is usually available. Organised by Made in Cumbria.

Brough

Brough Memorial Hall; 3 rd Saturday in month, 9.30am-2pm (Jan-Mar until 1pm)

This indoor FARMA certified market is just off the A66. All food is locally-farmed produce, including lamb, beef, pork, venison, trout, poultry, eggs, vegetables, fudge and preserves. Organised by Brough Farmers' Market.

Carlisle

City centre; 1 st Friday of the month, 9.30am-3.30pm

Carlisle's award-winning farmers' market is held in the pedestrianised centre of the city, providing a wide choice of local produce. Organised by Made in Cumbria.

Carnforth

Carnforth Station Visitor Centre; 4 th Wednesday in month, 9.30am-2.30pm

There is a delicious selection of local food at this small but well-stocked market. Between shopping, you can always re-live the romance of the film Brief Encounter in the relaxed atmosphere of the period refreshment room, where scenes from the classic film were shot.

High Bentham

Market Hall, High Bentham; 1 st Saturday in month, 9.30am-1pm

Held on the northern edge of the Forest of Bowland, High Bentham Farmers' Market offers a varied selection of products from the Cumbria, Yorkshire and Lancashire in the comfort of an indoor location. Organised by Made in Cumbria.

High Newton

Village Hall, High Newton; regular slot still to be decided, 9pm-2pm

This is a new market � the first was due to be held on May 12 th � and it future frequency will depend upon public and trader response. For further details contact organiser Theresa Hardie on 015395 31793.

Kendal

Market Place, Kendal; last Friday in month, 9.30am-3.30pm

A bustling farmers' market next to the River Kent offers the very best in local foods. Organised by Made in Cumbria.

Kirkby Lonsdale

Currently there is a weekly general market held every Thursday in Kirkby Lonsdale (8am-6pm), but organisers are exploring the possibility of extending this into a farmers' and local produce market one Thursday in each month.

Milnthorpe

Market Square, Milnthorpe; 2 nd Friday in month, 8.30am-3pm

This new farmers' and local produce market is being run alongside Milnthorpe's general market and looks like being a real success. The debut event on Good Friday attracted 6,000 shoppers. Hosted by Milnthorpe Parish Council.

Orton

Orton village, one mile from M6 junction 38; 2 nd Saturday in month, 9.30am-2.30pm

More than 40 local farmers, growers and producers as well as artisan craftspeople offer an excellent variety of high quality produce, including organic and gluten-free produce. Organised by Orton Farmers Ltd.

Penrith

Market Square, Penrith; 3 rd Tuesday in month, 9am-2.30pm

Market Square is a characterful setting for Penrith's colourful market, where there's a tempting array of fresh, local produce and speciality foods. Organised by Eden District Council.

Pooley Bridge

Ullswater Lake, edge of River Eamont; April-September � last Sunday in month, 10.30am-2.30pm; October-March � check www.ortonfarmers.co.uk for details

Set in a beautiful location on the edge of the River Eamont, visitors can enjoy live music being performed while they browse the stalls. Organised by Orton Farmers Ltd.

Sedbergh

Joss Lane car park, Sedbergh; April-October � 2 nd Wednesday in month, 9am-3pm

This is a new venture for Sedbergh. There is a wide range of produce you can expect to see on sale including preserves, artisan bread, handmade cheeses, organic meat, seasonal vegetables, poultry and game. Organised by Sedbergh Chamber of Trade.

Ulverston

Outside Market Hall, Ulverston; 3 rd Saturday in month, 9.30am-2.30pm

Ideally situated for a visit to the South Lakes & Furness, this popular fair offers the best in local produce next to the regular Saturday market. Organised by Made in Cumbria.

Cockermouth

Market Place, Cockermouth; 1 st Saturday in month, 9.30am-2.30pm

With its historic links to William Wordsworth and Fletcher Christian of Mutiny on the Bounty fame, Cockermounth provides a rich backdrop for one of Cumbria's newest street markets. Visitors can enjoy the best in local foods along with a selection of locally produced crafts. Organsied by Made in Cumbria.

Lancaster

Market Square; 2 nd Saturday in month, 10am-4pm

Lancaster Farmers Market is an outdoor market located within the pedestrianised city centre and running in conjunction with the weekly street market, a wide variety of locally produced goods is offered, including locally reared meats, freshly baked bread, pies and puddings, dairy produce, pickles and preserves and seasonal fruit and vegetables.