THERE has been a three-fold increase in farmers markets across the UK over the past year.

At the beginning of 2000, there were an estimated 100 of the markets, now there are 300. According to the National Association of Farmers Markets, in 1997 there was only only one farmers market in the country.

The increase is due to a "renaissance in buying locally", according to the association.

Sales boomed over the Christmas period, when many folk decided to buy their seasonal treats at the markets. Top sellers included turkeys, geese, pheasants, salmon, Christmas cakes and puddings, Christmas trees and holly wreaths.

There is a farmers market this Saturday at the Livestock Centre at Murton, and the following Saturday there will be one at the sheep shed at the Malton Livestock Centre.