Meet the Trader

Meet the Trader….John Farrow

A third generation farmer, John Farrow farms in Thornton Curtis, North Lincolnshire. Since taking over the family farm 33 years ago John has focused on producing a variety of foods from the farm, some of which have been sold into the local community.

He was part of the group which set up the successful Brigg Farmers’ Market and has always supported it. A real advocate for local produce, over the years he has sold fruit and vegetables, both organic and conventional. He now focuses on lamb grown and finished on the farm.  John says the farmers’ market is a way that farmers can connect with local people and food buyers. He can explain how the food is produced and give them an opportunity to sample and buy local produce.

A recipient of the prestigious Nuffield Farming Scholarship, he has been able to travel around the world, gaining experience and seeing the growing and marketing of a wide range of crops and animals in many countries.

As a farmer, John says that he gets satisfaction from growing a successful crop or animal and bringing it to the farmers’ market. There, he enjoys explaining to customers how the food is produced, so they then go home with knowledge about their purchase. “I know that my lambs and sheep have been well looked after all their lives and travelled very little.  This closeness to the customer produces a fresh and quality product.”  John says the Farmers’ Market is important to Brigg and the farming community, keeping alive the traditions of farming and market towns.

Foodie Favourite: Home grown Barnsley lamb chops with asparagus and new potatoes. There is nothing like it!