Wilmslow market plans unveiled

What do violet garlic, monks beard, Sussex beef, stinking bishop, bergamot, and purple carrots have in common?

They are all exotic, quality ingredients used by the UK's leading innovative chefs - all of which can be purchased on Wilmslow high street as of next month.

A lot has been written about Mary Portus, the self claimed 'Mary Queen of Shops', and her recent challenge by the government to investigate what can be done to save the nations high streets. Whilst her report is expected to be completed in the autumn, two local residents have decided not to wait until then to put their own SOS plans for Wilmslow in to action.

There are ample reasons why Wilmslow Town Centre is suffering; the recession, parking issues, out of town shopping centres and the rise of online purchasing are just some of the factors.

The Local Data Company noted in a report earlier this year "that town centres with the highest density of multiple retailers are tending towards increasing vacancy", which is particularly uncomfortable reading for Wilmslow due to the low number of independent retailers.

Which begs the question, is our high street doomed, or can it be saved?

Denise Valente and Vicky Jackson, assisted by Cheshire East Council, believe Wilmslow can fight back and they have been working tirelessly to bring a vibrant artisan market to Wilmslow.

Denise said "The aim of this market is to bring diversity and ambiance to Wilmslow, to offer something a little bit different to what can be found on other high streets and the out of town shopping centres. Not only will the market be offering artisan food and drink, but it will be supporting local artists and craftspeople, providing unique, original and thought provoking hand crafted items designed to inspire.

Vicky said "The food aspect of the market will be exceptional. The very best of seasonal local farm produce, artisan breads, delicatessen and hand crafted cheeses, produced and sourced by people who are passionate about what they do, and when you meet them you will see that their passion is infectious.

"A five minute conversation with Chris Andrews of Strawberry Sundae, the Wilmslow artisan markets fruit and veg specialist, is truly fascinating, and will leave you inspired to increase your creativity in the kitchen. As well as selling local seasonal fruit and vegetables, he stocks more unusual, lesser known varieties, such as purple carrots, French purple vitalotte potatoes, black tomatoes and Gordon Ramsey's favourite Violet Garlic - exquisite delicacies you won't find in your local supermarket.

"Keep an eye out for the wide selection of heirloom tomatoes Chris will be featuring at our first market, outrageous and extravagant varieties which are championed by Jamie Oliver.

"Online shopping may be discounted, and retail parks seen as convenient, however nothing can compete with the expertise and passion you get from a specialist."

The first Wilmslow Artisan Market will take place on Grove Street on Saturday 23rd July. Featuring around 60 high quality stalls this special event is intended to provide a day of fun, live music, story telling and activities for all the family to enjoy.

Photo: (l-r) Denise Valente and Vicky Jackson.

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Artisan Market, Market, Wilmslow Artisan Market, Wilmslow Market