Bosworth Farmers Market - Jul 2010

Tom and I spent a useful day at Bosworth Farmers Market on 25th July. I thought I would do a bit of a report as we are due to attend again next month on 22nd August.

Overall it was a very worthwhile day. We spoke to a lot of people - some cyclists, some not and had quite a lot of interest in Sustrans and our planned led rides in September. It is amaing how many people have unused bikes in garages!! We arrived at 9:00 when the market started and left about 1:30 - market finishes at 2:00, but is quiet after 1:00. Between 10:30 and 12:30 it is really buzzing.

We ended up with a good spot at the entrance to the market and had enough room for a small table. The roller banner (see picture) worked really well, but it is not really designed for outdoor use - however we were next to a handy bollard that we could strap it to and it was fine!

Because space was limited all the information we used was:
- free your bike cards; people fill these in and send off to get an information pack about cycling local to them
- our FreshAirMiles led rides flyers
- Hinckley cycle map
- "banana booklets" - general info about Sustrans / cycling and also has supporters form

We probably should have counted what we distributed, but I would say about 25 cycle maps (we ran out of these), 30-40 led rides flyers, 20 free your bike cards and half a dozen "banana booklets" plus a few balloons and badges.

The other thing was that you do need to actively approach people. Initially they are suspicious that you are either trying to sell to them or con them! Once you get over this hurdle then people are more than happy to talk and we got into all sorts of interesting conversations about cycling and the world in general.

They are happy to have us back next month, but we may not get the same spot. Personally I can recommend the Gopsalls ice cream although next month I am hoping we are next to the wine rather than olives!
Alan
PS The penny farthings and old bikes (see slideshow) just happened to be passing - can't remember what club they were from.

PPS. I have subsequently tried to get hold of more Hinckley cycle maps, however they have none left (they printed 10,000). They intend reprinting, but this may not be in time for next month.