It is 30 years since residents were able to buy fresh vegetables and fish on the street at a large market. But that is about to change next month with the introduction of a market for full-time farmers and amateur gardeners to sell their produce.

The first farmers' market will be held at the Bull's Head car park in Hamilton on February 2 and organisers hope it will encourage locals to take up gardening to sell their produce.

Farmers' markets have become popular in the United States and Europe in the past decade as a way for farmers and green-fingered enthusiasts to sell their goods, and a chance for customers to pick up the freshest fish and vegetables.

The idea for Bermuda's farmers' market came from Frances Eddy who was wondering what to do with the surplus organic vegetables she grew in her Warwick garden.

He son Jonas, the market coordinator, told The Royal Gazette: "She realised all these people had surplus fruit and vegetables and should have a venue to sell that. And there are farmers who are big producers who should have another venue other than the normal distribution systems.

"I believe this will be the first for about 30 years - the last one was maybe on Victoria Street. A long time ago there was probably a market on Front Street.

"It is the traditional way for people to sell their produce in a market rather than a supermarket and we want to re-establish that tradition link, and encourage people to be more aware of what they are eating, where it is coming from and maybe to use more arable land for the benefit of everyone. Farmers' markets are always a way to revitalise a community and show solidarity among people. All different ethnicities come together and sell and shop together so it is quite a social affair." The first market on February 2 will be free, but in every succeeding Saturday stall-holders will have to pay a $20 fee. Stall-holders will have to bring all of their own tables and equipment, but the organisers will take care of advertising and signage. Anyone interested in taking part in the market should contact Frances or Jonas Eddy on 238 0059, or e-mail at bermudafarmersmarketyahoo.com.