A NEW farmers market has been officially launched in East Lancashire - almost two years after the idea was dismissed as a pipe dream.

A group of local people joined forces to create the new business - Rossendale Farmers Market Limited - which saw the launch of the new event on Sunday.

The first Rossendale Farmers' Market was held on the premises of the Airtours site in Helmshore and organisers said it was a huge success.

The organisation is now planning to hold markets on the first Sunday of each month.

Local suppliers were on hand to sell fruit, vegetables, jams and preserves, dairy products, meat, eggs, honey, poultry, pies, bread and crafts.

Peter Sweetmore worked alongside local entrepreneurs Melanie Latham, John Holt and Rachel Hutchinson to develop the idea.

Peter said: "We are delighted with the interest we have had and are hoping to build on that."

He added: "It will help ensure the local economy grows and people can have easy access to high quality, locally produced fare.

"We are very grateful to Airtours for allowing us to use their land for the start of this exciting venture until the bridge into Helmshore Mills Textile Museum has been repaired.

"When that's been completed the market will move across the road on to the museum car park."