Kendal Farmers Market has announced that it will now operate twice monthly, commencing from May 10.

The second Friday and the last Friday of every month will see the venue bustling with activity.

The decision is the latest in a series of positive developments for the market which, over the past 18 months, has become a landmark in the region's food landscape.

It has quickly transformed into a vital stop for anyone with a passion for high-quality, sustainably sourced, and locally grown produce.

Offering everything from fresh harvest fruits and vegetables to artisan cheeses and homemade preserves, the market serves as a source of not just local produce but a point of connection with the farmers and makers behind the stalls.

Historically, Kendal received its Market Charter in 1189 from Richard I.

Awarded to Baron Gilbert Fitz-Renfried, this marked the inception of 'Market Kendal,' the launch pad for the town as we know it today.

Since then, the market has had its ups and downs but has generally seen improved fortunes since the establishment of Kendal Farmers Market more than 30 years ago.

The recent renewed interest in local produce and its provenance, particularly evident post the Covid-19 pandemic, has introduced a significant shift for the better.

Catherine Connor, chair of Kendal Farmers Market, said: "It’s really good news that we’ve been able to increase the number of market days from one to two each month and that’s largely down to the quality of the hugely dedicated stallholders and the amazing produce that they have on their stalls for people to buy.

"There’s no doubt at all that the Farmers Market adds a real focal point to Kendal’s high street, it attracts local residents and visitors into the heart of the town in equal measure, helping to drive overall footfall, dwell time and customer spend, all of which in turn helps support the town’s shops because people linger longer in town and make an occasion of the day."

The market committee is also considering ways to increase the number of available pitches each market day, offering yet further possibility for growth.

Kendal Farmers Market has also become a springboard for up and coming businesses.

It has facilitated the success of 31 new business start-ups, post-pandemic, with 60 per cent of them becoming regular stallholders and approximately 20 per cent maturing to take on dedicated premises locally.

For more information about Kendal Farmers Market visit: https://kendalfarmersmarket.co.uk