The first WI market in Cornwall opened in the Liskeard premises, now occupied by Gilberts the outfitters, on Friday, June 10, 1955. Now it is no longer affiliated to the National Federation of Women's Institutes and the venue has changed to the Long Room at the Public Hall, but Liskeard Country Market is celebrating its golden jubilee on Friday, June 10, between 8.30am and 11.30am. There will be a birthday cake, free refreshments, and a chance to sample the goods on offer, plus a free prize draw to be made by Liskeard mayor Sandra Preston at 11am with the first prize a basket of market produce. Despite all the changes the ethos of the market remains the same, a co-operative in which shareholders sell high quality, home-produced goods direct to the public. Products on sale include bakery, preserves, eggs, seasonal fruit and vegetables, plants and flowers, and crafts. The market takes a commission on sales to cover running costs, but it is non-profit making and the money remaining is paid to producers. Like many small businesses, Liskeard Country Market has suffered increased competition from supermarkets and even farmers' markets in recent years, but members remain convinced they still have an important role to play in keeping alive cookery and craft skills. Liskeard producers have donated some of unsold cookery to Caradon's Housing Youth Project, and two musicians will be playing their accordions for charity at the celebrations.
