Shaw Councillor and Liberal Democrat Leader, Councillor Howard Sykes MBE, wants to see Shaw host a monthly farmers’ and producers’ market to ‘showcase’ local fare.

In his letter to Sara Hewitt, Oldham Council’s Markets Manager, he suggests that such a market would be ‘a new and exciting opportunity to shop and sell in our borough post-Lockdown.’

Councillor Sykes explained: “Oldham people have been turning more to local producers and suppliers for their groceries and household goods to help support local businesses and for the extra-special service they offer.  Money spent with these businesses stays local and because everything is locally made and transported there are fewer food miles which is good for the environment.  I want to see us capitalise on that loyalty by offering these producers and suppliers a ‘new shop-window’ in Shaw after Lockdown ends.”

Farmers’ and producers’ markets sell locally sourced goods such as meats, vegetables, cheeses, artisan breads, cakes and pastries, jams and preserves; beer, cider, and cordials; soaps and other fancy goods.

“Farmers’ and producers’ markets are very successful elsewhere and we already have one in Uppermill”, added Councillor Sykes.  “Having a second of these markets in Shaw on one of our traditional Thursday market days every month would be a novel way to revitalise our local market which has been in decline in recent years and a new way to bring more people into Shaw for a great day out.”