Lesley Legge, a Town Councillor, and Kevin Clare, the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce started researching other local Farmers’ Markets in November 1999.

They met with the Monday Market representatives and got in touch with farmers locally involved in Farmers’ Markets. One of the hurdles at the time was the Market Acts which only allowed a Monday Market in Abingdon, and so initially the Farmers’ Market was held on Monday once a month – some of the stalls were under the County Hall, and some by the Abbey Archway.

Audrey Hasnip was the Mayor at the opening in April 2000. The Town Clerk at the time was Brian Tonkin. Jill and Joy, volunteers from EarthWatch, looked after the rents and checked all was well for  the first two years.

Peter Green chaired the meetings about the Market after Lesley Legge became Mayor in May 2000. and with Nigel Warner after Brian retired. Between them they sorted out the Market Acts. Nowadays the Farmers’ Market is on third Friday of each month.

Thanks to Johnny Morrison for the pictures, and Lesley Legge for the details.