Prue Leith is new Farm Retail Association patron

The Farm Retail Association is delighted to announce that celebrated chef and TV presenter Prue Leith is now a Patron.

In 2025, Prue became an Ambassador for the FRA’s More Than Food campaign, to shine a spotlight on the important role Farmers Markets play in our communities and the importance of bringing fresh, local food to our tables.

Speaking passionately about the importance of supporting Farmers Markets, she said: “I’m delighted to join the FRA as a Patron. I firmly believe in the importance of not only having access to great, fresh food, but the role Farmers Markets play locally across the UK. In fact, it’s the best day of the week, it’s when the while village turns out and communities come together. It’s a social event and it’s glorious! If you’ve never been to a farmers market or farm shop, give it a go!”

Prue firmly supports the FRA’s Farmers Market Accreditation Scheme, which ensures that markets meet strict standards when they join:

· Authenticity and provenance - produce is genuinely local and sold by the people who grow it, make it and understand it.

· Quality and Freshness - customers know they are buying seasonal food at its very best, that has done very little food miles and is direct from local farmers.

· Trust and reassurance - the FRA reassures communities that the market is professionally run and that the correct insurance is in place.

Ben Loughrey, Vice Chair of the Farm Retail Association, commented, “We’re proud to highlight the difference that accredited Farmers Market make in strengthening rural economies, reducing food miles, and giving people access to real food they can trust. With Prue’s support, we can show just how powerful markets are in bringing people and communities together.”

For more information visit farmretail.co.uk/membership/farmers-markets/