Farmers’ Markets bring students and community together

The University of Exeter is launching a monthly Farmers Market to bring students and the community together to support local businesses. On the first Friday of every month, stalls selling fresh vegetables, cakes, chutneys and other local produce will be on the new Great Hall Piazza at the centre of the Streatham Campus. This venue is part of the Forum Project, which is nearing completion and offers a focal point for gatherings and events.

The first Farmers’ Market will be held on Friday 7 October, allowing students to start the new term with their cupboards stocked with the best local produce.

Director of Campus Services Geoff Pringle said: “These new farmers’ markets are all about bringing students and the community together to sample the fantastic produce that the region has to offer. Our £275 million investment in new buildings and facilities means we now have a wonderful centre to our Campus, which provides the perfect space for these kinds of events.”

Stall-holder Ellie Barwick of Tasty Treats said: “Devon has a fantastic range of local producers and it’s events like this that allow us to showcase our products and promote our company to a wider audience. It’s also important for us to encourage students to support the community and buy local.”

The £275 million investment programme on the University’s Streatham Campus is moving towards completion, with many facilities now open for the new term. The first sections of the Forum Project, including the Great Hall Piazza and refurbished library levels are now open, along with completed projects such as the Business School expansion and INTO Academic Centre. Students have now moved into the new Birks Grange residential development and the first residences in Duryard and Lafrowda.