A POPULAR market in Great Malvern is in the running to become Farmers’ Market of the Year.

The monthly Great Malvern Farmers’ Market, which is run by Boffy Markets Ltd in partnership with Malvern Hills District Council, has been chosen as one of four finalists in the Farmers’ Market of the Year category of the Farm Retail Awards.

Steve and Becky Boffy, who have been running Boffy Markets Ltd since 2006, took over the Great Malvern Farmers’ Market 18 months ago.

The market offers an abundance of fresh, local produce on offer, ranging from meat, fruit, vegetables to cheese, pickles and treats.

Boffy Markets Ltd runs more than 60 days of markets each year in towns and cities across the midlands, including food and drink and arts and crafts.

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Steve Boffy, of Boffy Arts Markets Ltd, said: "We are simply over the moon at being nominated for this prestigious award and so are our many traders and partners.

"I think the area in which we live is full of amazing producers and growers and I know the people of Malvern appreciate high quality local produce.

"Whilst I hope that we stand a chance of winning the top prize, we are proud to be one of just four national finalists.

"We have our fingers crossed and would love to win this for Malvern."

Organised by the Farm Retail Association (FRA), the national awards are the only ones to be judged by fellow farm retailers and celebrate the best farmers’ markets, farm shops, farm cafés and restaurants and trade suppliers in the country.

There are 19 finalists shortlisted for six awards in total. Categories include: Rising Star, Large Farm Shop of the Year, Small Farm Shop of the Year, Farmers’ Market of the Year, Farm Café/Restaurant of the Year and Supplier Member of the Year.

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Rob Copley, chairman of FRA, said: "We wish every finalist in the Farm Retail Awards the very best of luck.

"This year especially, farmers markets have helped to keep the nation fed, offering easy access to fresh, nutritious, and affordable British food.

"Supporting local farmers and local jobs, farmers markets are at the beating heart of communities across the country.

"We hope customers keep coming back to support them and local farmers for years to come."

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at a virtual awards ceremony taking place as part of FRA’s annual industry conference, ‘Stronger Together’.

The next Great Malvern Farmers’ Market will be held from 9am to 2pm on Saturday, December 19.