The Isle of Man Farmers’ Markets celebrated its 10th anniversary on Saturday, back where it all started at the Villa Marina colonnade, in Douglas.

The celebration saw activities for the whole family, from bouncy castles to a music stage provided by SoundCheck, a music project which promotes young musicians island-wide.

The farmers’ markets were started with support from the then Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to help farmers diversify their business and give them a platform to get their produce directly in front of the consumer.

The farmers’ markets also operates from four venues outside of Douglas: Tynwald Mills, in St John’s; Ramsey; Castletown; and its newest location, The Village Walk, Onchan.

A committee of about 18 farmers and producers run and organise the markets.

Sheila Gawne, who is chairman of Isle of Man Farmers’ Markets, has been part of the organisation since the very beginning.

She said the most important factor in the markets’ success was the traceability and freshness of produce.

’You can go and actually look at the farm, you can tell them exactly where it has come from on the island,’ she said.

’We can tell you what we do and how we do it.’

Sheila said producers were also keen to educating people to use the fresh products in an easy and quick way.

She thanked everyone who has supported the markets over the past 10 years.

Megan Webb, aged 21, is one of the supporters of the farmers’ markets.

’It’s nice to know you’re supporting your local farmers and economy as well as knowing your food is coming from ethically sound sources,’ she said.

’Not only that but it’s good to actually see the face behind your food.’