A FLEDGLING farmers' market could come under threat in Middlewich if shoppers do not come out in force and support the event.

Two regular stallholders have left Middlewich's farmers' market, held in the Bull Ring on the first Saturday of every month, because they have not had enough custom since the market began in February.

But events organiser Dave Thompson has found replacements for Saturday's market and hopes shoppers will make the most of what is on offer.

He said: "We've lost two stalls simply because they weren't selling enough produce.

"The market is something I was asked to try to get up and running as soon as I started this job by the council, retailers and members of the public.

"Demand was there from the community but we are not attracting enough shoppers to the market."

He added: "I wrongfully thought that once it was set up with a fixed date people would remember but unfortunately they don't.

"I think it's just a matter of keeping it going so it becomes part of the monthly shopping culture where you can buy that special bit of cheese or something not readily available in town."

Dave said there were plenty of benefits to the farmers' markets, from the goods available to the experience as a whole, with St Michael's Church offering refreshments and making it into a social occasion.

He said: "It's become part of the social scene and it's put on for the benefit of the town and the community.

"It gives people a chance to try something different and to buy fresh local produce that hasn't travelled 'x' number of miles."

Dave is expecting between 12 and 14 stallholders to set up in the Bull Ring on Saturday, including herbs and preserves and home made bread, pickles and pasties.

The market will take place from 10am to 2pm.