Celebrity chef visits Lichfield Farmers

Published: 08 October 2012

On Thursday 4th October Lichfield Farmers' Market was privileged to play host to celebrity chef, James Martin, best known for presenting 'Saturday Kitchen', when he was filmed by the BBC as part of his new series 'Operation Hospital Food'.

"The aim of the new series, to be broadcast next year, is for James Martin to work with Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham, to help transform their menu. James wants to win the hearts and minds of hospital staff by introducing them to fresh ingredients from local suppliers. James has a huge passion for using local produce and for introducing this into the hospital's menu, which will in turn help to support the local economy. Visiting Lichfield Farmers' Market allowed James to show the staff the variety of produce that can be found on their doorstep" said Lucy McLennan Series Producer.

James spoke to several of the local farmers and producers and was filmed discussing topics such as availability, cost and supply with Elaine Clarke from Manor Farm Fruits, Jo Tomlinson from Romerden Farm and Simon Lockett from Hatton Hill Farm. The sunny autumnal day, the historic Market Square and Lichfield's attractive Farmers' Market helped to create a lovely setting for filming.

Rachel Clive, Lichfield City Council's Markets Officer, said "James Martin's popularity was evident by the large amount of people who came into Lichfield, on a week day, to see him, especially as publicity was limited and somewhat last minute before his visit. I'm sure they were not disappointed as his alluring charm and 'down to earth' approach won the day. The increase in visitors was also a great boost for the monthly Farmers' Market as they stayed to stroll around and buy from the 50 varied and interesting stalls selling delicious and enticing fresh local produce and excellent arts and crafts".

The Lichfield Farmers' Market is held, on Market Square, on the first Thursday of the month (except January) with weekly General Markets on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.