LOCAL farmers hold their first self-sufficient market in Malvern tomorrow (Saturday).

The Worcestershire Farmers' Market Group is now responsible for running the event after taking over from operators E G Skett and Co.

Janet Yates, co-ordinator of the group, said the farmers were delighted to be running things on their own in Malvern.

"It's a market we've been longing to run for a long time," she said.

"It's about the producers making it happen and taking charge of all aspects of the Malvern Farmers' Market and holding up the ethos of farmers' markets."

Ms Yates said the group hoped to become more financially independent by running the market: "In the past, we have needed the help of grants but we hope by taking on the role of market operator we will become less reliant on outside financial help."

E G Skett and Co ran the monthly market in the Council House car park from August 1999 until last month, when it terminated its contract with Malvern Hills District Council for both the Friday and farmers' markets.

All types of local produce will be on sale in the car park of the Council House, in Avenue Road, between 9am and 2pm tomorrow. The market will run on the third Saturday on every month.

On Sunday, the first farmers' market at Hanley Swan Village Hall will take place between 11am and 2pm.

The event replaces the market previously held at Hunters Inn, near Longdon. It will take place on the third Sunday of every month.