IPSWICH'S first-ever farmers' market brought out the crowds . . . and gave visitors the chance to have their say on how Suffolk is run.Market stalls have become a familiar sight on the Cornhill since Ipswich Market moved there three and a half years ago.

IPSWICH'S first-ever farmers' market brought out the crowds . . . and gave visitors the chance to have their say on how Suffolk is run.

Market stalls have become a familiar sight on the Cornhill since Ipswich Market moved there three and a half years ago.

But yesterday saw the first ever farmers' market on the site - although it is an experiment that seems certain to be repeated in the future.

Stalls selling everything from honey to meat and from flowers to Suffolk were showing off their goods to the public at the start of British Food Fortnight. And many were surprised by the popularity of the stalls in the county town.

Lotty Barbour from Cratfield Meats had almost sold out by lunchtime. She said: “It's been a very good day. There have been a lot of people here and they've been buying what's on offer.

“We'll certainly come again if there is another market.”

There was a similar message from Derek and Adrienne Dorling who had brought their Suffolk Honey from Finningham.

Mr Dorling said: “We have plenty on sale, but it has gone very well. It's such a good idea, we'd love to come again.”

The market was organised by Suffolk County Council in association with the borough council.

The county had its own stall, giving visitors the opportunity to comment on what priorities it should set for next year's budget.

And most of the county council cabinet were on hand to hear what people had to say.

Leader Jeremy Pembroke said: “There are a lot of people here and we are delighted to see the turnout and to hear their views.

“I certainly think this is great success and market is something we would like to see become a regular feature in Ipswich.

“We've also had a tremendous response from people telling us what should happen to the budget process.”