A POPULAR farmers' market is here to stay after organisers announced a year-long programme of Sunday events.

The monthly Ramsbottom Farmers' Market, which is held in Market Place and in Ramsbottom Civic Suite, was launched last May as a six-month trial but has proved so popular with stall holders, residents and visitors that it is continue right through 2004.

A survey in September gave it unanimous support for the market and the first event of the New Year will take place between 10am and 3pm tomorrow Sunday.

Trish Willott, Bury Council's town centre co-ordinator, said: "The regular stall holders on the market are delighted to continue. It is also a boost for Ramsbottom town centre as a whole.

"On Farmers' market days the centre is busy with visitors with a number of shops, cafes and restaurants open."

Coun Tim Chamberlain, Bury Council's executive member for regeneration and housing, said: "Ramsbottom has definitely been put on the map as a good destination, not just for farmers who attend but also for visitors who are coming to the area for the first time and who are undoubtedly making return visits."

The market features more than 25 stalls and brings together farmers and producers from all over the North West, offering a vast array of local produce such as jams, bread and homemade fudge, fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, including ostrich, savoury pies and seafood.

In addition there are homemade crafts and cards, paintings and other locally made items.

Other Farmers' Market dates for similar events 2004 (all Sundays, always between 10am and 3pm) are February 1, March 14, April 11, May 9, June 13, July 11, August 8, September 12, October 10, November 14 and December 12.