Community market rebrands as Thurso Food and Craft Fair

Thurso Food and Craft Fair (TFCF) might seem a completely new venture but, as its organisers point out, is the rebranding of what was Thurso Community Market (TCM) which had operated since 2019.

Penny Irvine, Kara Fraser and Yvonne Rathbone are the women behind the event and say that the concept remains the same.

"Regeneration becomes rebranding," they say in a joint statement. "For those who struggle with change, consider this like Dr Who; faces change but the concept remains the same."

Kara Fraser will be the link with local charities, forging and developing those "positive connections in our community". At each monthly fair there will be a community spotlight on the organisations doing the refreshments and community information table. Penny Irvine is the tech-wizard in the group and will take on the task of coordinating bookings for the fairs. Yvonne Rathbone will be keeping everyone updated on social media for news, events or promotions.

In rebranding, the team wanted to develop the fair to incorporate locally-sourced produce. The first event will have an award winning local distillery and chocolatier. "It is important to the team to highlight just what the region has to offer and celebrate quality of produce here," say the group.

With over 20 stallholders at the first event on September 2, variety and quality will be very much at the forefront, they add. TFCF says it aims to establish "something of pride for the town, its community and for visitors" who will see the best the county has in terms of quality local produce and hand crafted products.

In addition, the team are dedicated to forging closer community links and actively wish to promote local charities and organisations. In September, the Girl Guides Thurso branch will be providing refreshments and Alzheimer Scotland will be there to provide information of issues relating to dementia. "Every month we will be inviting and involving different community organisations."

The fairs will be held monthly at the Royal British Legion (RBL), Thurso and the team say they are both privileged and honoured to work in conjunction "with such a tremendous organisation and a hub of the community". Kerry Macleod, the RBL events coordinator, has been helping to support the team.

Four events are planned this year, commencing on September 2, with each event being held on the first Saturday of the month and running from 11am to 3pm. The Christmas Fun Day on December 2 will include an "extra visitor with his helper in the grotto".

TFCF adds: "The team have invested both time and money into promoting the events and know that the wonderful Thurso community will, as always, show their support. To say thank you after the final event of the year, all money raised will be given to a local charity. The previous year, as TCM, the total raised was approximately £900, split between three local charities." The three hope to exceed that amount this year with their rebranded venture.

All three members of the team say they share the "desire and commitment to establish an amazing food and craft fair in Thurso". TFCF says it will be a true communal gathering where, talents, skills, produce, range and diversity are all celebrated for the benefit of the community.

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