In 'a positive start to the week', I mentioned he Dolgellau Country Market, as I received many good wishes towards it here is a little more.
The Dolgellau Country Market is held every Thursday in a building called the Free Library.
There is a network of these markets across the UK and each one develops a character to suit their local area. Not surprisingly, Dolgellau Country Market's biggest seller is the cake section.
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| Photo by John Clift, Flickr. |
Although it is the county town of Merionydd, Dolgellau is only the size of many villages in England. With a population of around 2 and 1/2 thousand, the market is a popular alternative to the local supermarkets. Along with the cake section we sell savoury bakes, jams, pickles, organic pork, free range eggs, home grown veg, plants and crafts.
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| 2 of our many tables of baking! |
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| a small selection of our plants and veg. |
My main role is to supply homegrown veg and plants, however i also take along my wirework jewellery.
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| some of the crafts |
Dolgellau is located in the Snowdonia National Park, so it has a big influx of tourists during the holidays, which makes this the busiest time of the year.
Anyone can become a member of the Country Market Scheme. All payment is received 1 month later, with a comission taken to cover costs including insurance and room rent.
So a morning at the market, allows me to meet with regular customers alongside my fellow producers. I am able to take my children, who in turn enjoy working at 'mummys little shop' and all of this whilst hopefully making a profit!
Edited: The Dolgellau Country Market has now closed, but Dolgellau Thursday Market has opened! The new Thursday market has many of the same principals, all produce is homemade, and the emphasis is on local produce. Hours are now 9-12.30. Products available include: cakes, savoury bakes, honey, cheese, meat, eggs, veg, plants and crafts.
