WARWICKSHIRE Farmers' Market is about to enter the world of Absolutely Fabulous with the appointment of a public relations guru to help them promote their produce.

However, Helen Bowie, whose £11,000 a year part-time appointment as promotions and development co-ordinator is being funded jointly by Stratford District Council and Rugby Borough Council, is a world away from the likes of Edina and Patsy.

Helen, who is based in Shipston, will be giving the farmers markets her professional advice on how best to promote their locally grown fruit and vegetables, their local cheeses, premium quality meat and dairy produce and their freshly baked bread.

Helen, who has worked for Marconi and BP as well as the EU in Brussels, said she is delighted to have the opportunity to bring her "enthusiasm and expertise" to the new job.

"Farmers markets started in 1999 and had only just got going when they were confronted by foot and mouth disease. It was felt that someone was needed in a co-ordinating role to pull things together," said Helen, who is currently working on a logo for the markets.

Farmers selling at Warwickshire Farmers Markets must be local, must sell their own produce and every person behind the stall must be either a family member or employee directly involved with production.

There is a farmers markets in Rother Street, Stratford on the first and third Saturday of each month.

"I personally would love to see a farmers market in Shipston," added Helen.