“THIS is such exciting news! I am so happy about this,” said Elize Kietzmann, Bedford’s legendary baker, when she heard that Giles and Jenny Robinson had agreed to co-ordinate the Country Market at Bedford’s annual Garden Festival, which takes place from October 19 to 21.
Elize confirmed she will definitely be doing a stall (her bakes always sell out) and her words echoed the sentiments of a lot of townsfolk.
Outgoing co-ordinator, Jo Sherrington, is moving to the coast, but she will continue to share her knowledge and experience for the next two months.
Jo did the job last year and the market was regarded as one of the best in the 15-year history of the Bedford Garden Festival.
Giles is a retired businessman and he is keen to set the market on a sustainable course into the future. This is a challenge at a time when so many markets are foundering because of rising costs.
“I have been looking for the chance to do something for Bedford – to help bring people here to see what we are all about and running the festival market is an ideal opportunity,” Giles told Mid-Karoo Express.
The Dutch Reformed Church’s hall and grounds have been confirmed as a site and the Templeton Choir will sing in the church at midday on Saturday, October 20.
A number of stalls have already been booked, but there is still prime space available for early birds, said Giles.
He confirmed that his team would continue to help stallholders to find budget homestay accommodation. New this year, camping and caravan facilities (with water and electricity) would be available for stallholders on a fenced grassy plot close to the church grounds. At a Garden Festival working group meeting in Bedford this week, it was agreed that, as before, plants, seedlings and garden-related products would be offered in the grounds of the Duke of Bedford Inn.
Craftwork, artisan- and fast-food would be offered at the Country Market. Anyone who is interested in taking a stall can write to info@bedford.co.za and your query will be routed to the appropriate team.