THE GENEROUS BAKER LAUNCHES IN MARKET RASEN

Steve Rowland, ex IT boffin and now a happy floury baker in a mid-life career change, chose Market Rasen’s market to launch his new business to the town’s visitors and foodies…

Steve Rowland, The Generous Baker

The Generous Baker was launched on the first Saturday of March 2014, and was so named as the ingredients are generous, whether in terms of quality or quantity or both! As much as possible, ingredients are sourced locally with the flour coming direct from the Maud Foster Mill in Boston. All eggs are free- range, as well. It’s the right philosophy, I think, and certainly how I do my own shopping!

 Several markets were visited over the course of a number of months before the decision was taken to debut at the ‘Mr BIG’ March event in Market Rasen.

Market Rasen has a great feel to it and has had a market place for over 800 years. The town was the smallest of the Mary Portas ‘Portas Pilot Towns’ chosen in 2011; it received assistance in rejuvenating its high street and was featured on tv. The initiative has certainly helped, with visitors being offered a variety of goods in the high street shops (and neighbouring streets), the architecture of which features pretty Georgian and Victorian buildings. The antique shop was a favourite of ours, plus we liked the deli, Greens of Lincolnshire in particular. The market is an integral part of the shopping experience and has already won two awards, the latest being The Best Social Enterprise Market 2014.

The ‘Mr BIG’ market is held in the market square on the first Saturday of every month; the stalls are conveniently and attractively arranged in two large circles. I was amazed by the variety and quality of goods on sale including free- range pork, free- range eggs, honey, jams, cheese, artisan wood-fired bread, cakes, vegetables, pies, oils, plants, bird houses, haberdashery, jewellery, vintage collectables and there was even a hog roast and refreshments available for the hungry market goer. An accordion player added a rather jaunty air, and I hope he is there next time!

A great day was had by traders and members of the public – everyone seemed to be smiling! - and I've already confirmed my attendance for the next one on Saturday April 5th (9am - 3pm) so please do say hello if you're visiting. If you’re not from Market Rasen, it is worth a morning’s trip out and of course, as the town is delighted in reminding you as you drive in, parking is free!

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