Next stop - local produce

Rye Farmers Market linked with Rye Station for National Network Local Service Day

It saw Sussex Community Rail Partnership joining forces with the farmer’s market to promote local produce.

Similar events were held all over the country, designed to highlight community rail and the wonderful local produce which can be accessed along railway lines.

Sussex CRP arranged and manned a stall at the station in Rye.

Sam Bryant, from the Rail Partnership, said: “Producers from Rye Farmer’s Market supplied produce to be given away from the stall. The free tasters were new apple and pear flavoured crisps and apple juice from local farm Perry Court.

“The stall was decorated with other produce from local producers including eggs and honey.

“The railway passengers were really pleased with their freebies and many said that they would go to the market to try other local produce.

“Regular passengers felt it was a lovely way to be greeted at the station and the tourists thought that Rye was lucky to have such a wonderful stall at the station.

“We didn’t like to disappoint the tourists by saying it was a one off and actually it might well not be, as already there are discussions about more links with the market including having a market in the station car park during ‘Taste of Rye’ month in October.

“The tasters were a real hit. All those who had a chance to chat about the stall and the tasters felt this was an excellent way to highlight the weekly farmers’ market and the links between greener travel and local produce.

“As part of the national event the Rye stall was a real success and thanks must go to the farmers’ market and Southern for getting behind the idea.”