Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has today welcomed research from the Scottish Farmers' Markets Partnership which reveals that consumers are more than ever supporting their local farmers’ markets.

Mr Hume has been campaigning for local food and drink companies to have easier access the public procurement system.

Jim Hume said:

"Farmers’ markets provide a direct link between the consumer and producer.

“Issues therefore normally associated with the lengthy and complex food chain do not exist and consequently producers get a better deal.

“At the same time consumers get fresh, high quality food and drink, and this was reflected in the research when people were asked why they choose to buy at markets.

“On a larger scale, I would like to see the public procurement process made easier for smaller food and drink producers to access so that there is more fresh and seasonal produce in our schools and hospitals.

“This makes good sense for economic and health reasons.

“However, it need not cost authorities extra money. Budgets already exist for catering contracts.”