PERHAPS thankfully there aren’t many institutions founded in wartime which are still relevant today but Ledbury Country Market is certainly one.

It’s been going for 80 years and is still as popular today as it was in the grim days of 1944 although locally-shot rabbits are now off the menu.

Similar to others across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, it began as an event run by the Women’s Institute at a time when food resources were scarce and many rationed ingredients were in short supply.

So local communities came together to support each other, providing essential items that were difficult to obtain.

Ledbury’s market began in the Barrett Browning Institute in Bye Street and focused on selling what was available in the area, such as fresh vegetables, fruits and the aforesaid rabbits caught in the surrounding countryside.

Over the years the market has evolved in both its scope and structure.

It transitioned from being a WI-run venture to an independent co-operative under the wider umbrella of Country Markets Ltd, a national organisation supporting markets across the UK.

Today, Ledbury Country Market retains its core values of community involvement with local volunteers playing a crucial role in its operations.

Everything sold is produced, grown or handmade within a 15-mile radius, ensuring the freshest and highest-quality items for shoppers.

The range of products is extremely diverse with something for everyone.

The food section offers a mouth-watering assortment of homemade goods, including cakes, pies, bread, biscuits, jams, chutneys and free-range eggs.

Local producers also supply a selection of charcuterie and ready-made meals.

In addition to food, the market boasts a vibrant craft section where visitors can find handmade cards, pottery, beeswax candles, handmade soaps and hand-crafted sewn, knitted and crocheted items.

Market chairman John Whitelegg said: “Springtime is especially popular at the market as it becomes a hub for garden enthusiasts.

"Shoppers flock to purchase vegetable seedlings, herbs, flowers and a variety of hardy plants, all accompanied by expert advice from the growers themselves.

"This seasonal aspect highlights the community’s dedication to sustainability and the cultivation of local flora.

“With summer comes an abundance of homegrown vegetables and flowers.

"The market is regularly awash with colourful hand-picked flowers.

"Locally-grown asparagus is also one of the most sought-after and popular vegetables at that time of year.

"Late summer provides a great choice of locally-grown fruit.

"Soft fruits are especially popular.

"And of course the country market members are busily turning excess fruit and vegetables into jams and chutneys.”

Now held every Friday from 9am in the historic black and white Burgage Hall in Church Street, Ledbury Country Market has been a cherished institution for nearly eight decades, drawing both residents and visitors alike to its unique offerings.

Mr Whitelegg added: “Its continued success is a testament to the dedication of the country market members and producers who keep the market running week after week, maintaining its reputation for warmth, hospitality and high-quality goods.

"This co-operative serves not only as a place to shop but as a gathering point for the local community, fostering relationships between residents and celebrating the abundance of the Ledbury countryside.

"The market's weekly pop-up café has become especially popular with locals and visitors alike. Offering a place to stop, rest and chat.”

So see you there but don’t expect to find a filling for that rabbit pie.