A FARMERS’ market which has been at the heart of Haddington for more than two decades is getting ready to celebrate a major milestone.

Saturday’s Haddington Farmers’ Market will mark 21 years since the market was first established as a regular fixture on the town’s Court Street.

One of the first of its kind in Scotland, the market has gone from strength to strength since, while others have come and gone.

It was originally set up to provide local farmers with a direct route to customers so that they did not have to sell solely to large supermarket chains.

Numerous local start-ups have used the market, which runs from 9am to 1pm, as a launchpad and have gone on to flourish and create local jobs.

Peter McLaren, of Ballencrieff Pork, was among the stallholders at the first market and still sells his locally produced bacon and sausages at the monthly market.

He told the Courier: “Who would have known, on that sunny day in April 2000, that we would still be trading here in 21 years?”

Haddington Farmers’ Market is a supporter of the #ShopLocal campaign, which encourages people to spend their money in small, independent businesses which in turn creates and supports local jobs, making communities better places to live in.

Working with the local community is at the heart of the market’s success.

Bringing together the talent and expertise of local musicians, youth groups, Haddington Pipe Band, chefs, charities and other organisations aims to add to the shopping experience.

As usual, a bumper range of the best local and seasonal food, drink, gifts and crafts will be available on Saturday.

Councillor John McMillan lives in the town and is East Lothian Council’s spokesman for tourism and economic development.

He said: “I’m just so proud of the market and genuinely think it is something good that they have kept it going with so many characters who have become part of the market.

“It is a real tribute to Pauline Jaffray that it is still going strong.”

Val Shields, chairperson and committee member, said it was a shame that they could not really celebrate the milestone.

She said: “Unfortunately, we won’t be able to celebrate our anniversary at the market on Saturday due to Covid.

“This is in contrast to our 10th anniversary, where we had a giant cake to share with all our shoppers.

“Hopefully, we can celebrate at a later date when it is safer to do so.”

This weekend’s market will operate under strict Covid-19 guidelines.

Haddington Rotary Club will be providing stewarding to help keep everyone safe.