W.I. Markets

WI markets are open to everyone, not just members of the WI. Markets were started in 1919 to provide a place where surplus homemade and homegrown produce could be sold to the general public.

The markets are held, usually for one morning a week, in towns and villages all over the country. The money made goes back to the producer (less a small commission for running expenses) and is used in many ways, from helping with weekly household bills to paying for driving lessons.

The WI markets must comply with trading regulations and all goods are sold at reasonable prices according to the locality. They are registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts and anyone, WI members, non-members, husbands, family and friends may apply to join if they have suitable produce to sell.

Markets fill many needs. They encourage the production of first class produce and help housewives, pensioners, retired people, women with family commitments and home ties and many others to earn extra money. Many markets sell craft work and so help to keep traditional skills alive and enable many non-cooks or gardeners to benefit from their skills. Markets give the general public the chance to buy country-fresh, homemade food, vegetables straight from the garden and bunches of country flowers. They also provide a friendly meeting place between the town and country in the many places where they are held each week.

New producers, who need not be WI members, should contact the Controller of the nearest WI market to find out what can be sold locally and how and when to bring it in. WI markets are true co-operatives and everyone is expected to help run their market.

New WI markets are continually being formed. At the time of going to press, there are over 500 in England, Wales and the Channel Islands.


DEVON WI MARKETS

Axminster
Open: Thurs 9.00 - 11.30 Winter
Comments: 9.00 - 12.00 Summer
Location: Masonic Hall, South Street

Barnstaple & District
Open: Fri 7.00 - 1.30
Location: Pannier Market, Butcher's Row

Bideford
Open: Sat 8.00 - 2.00
Comments: Also on Tues
Location: 13/14 Butcher's Row, Pannier Market

Bideford
Open: Tues 8.00 - 2.00
Comments: Also on Sat
Location: 13/14 Butcher's Row, Pannier Market

Exeter
Open: Wed 9.00- 4.00
Comments: 2nd & last Wednesday in month
Location: St George's Market, Fore Street, Exeter

Exmouth & District
Open: Fri 8.30 - 11.15
Location: Wesley Hall, Tower Street

Holsworthy
Open: Wed 9.30 - 12.30
Location: The Crown and Sceptre

Honiton
Open: Fri 10.00 - 11.15
Location: Red Cross Hall, King Street

Ivybridge & District
Open: Fri 8.45 - 11.30
Location: Dartmoor Leisure Centre

Kingsbridge
Open: Wed 8.15 - 12.00
Location: Foyer of Town Hall

South Molton
Open: Thurs 7.30 - 1.00
Location: Pannier Market, The Square

Tavistock
Open: Fri 8.00 - 1.00
Location: Pannier Market

Tiverton & District
Open: Wed 8.30 - 1.00
Location: The Pannier Market