The need to support local producers is stronger than ever and markets are a great way to stick to that budget that we all have these days. That's way The Manchester Real Food Market in Piccadilly Gardens is the best way to shop.

Opening for the first time on Friday 24 April to Saturday 25 April, the Manchester Real Food Market will be held twice monthly in Piccadilly Gardens and has a simple mission – to bring fresh food to the people of Manchester (after all, it's the least we deserve).

The market replaces the long-standing Farmers' and Producers' Market and will feature all manner of culinary delights from across the region, offering a wider selection of local produce alongside the popular original farmers and producers from the previous market.

Mark Legomski, head of Manchester Markets said: “The market is an eco-friendly alternative to the local supermarket and has the added benefit of providing 100% fresh food straight from the source. There is definitely a return towards shopping locally and the Manchester Real Food Market is meeting the needs of local people while supporting local business.”

On offer will be a wide variety of fresh fish and meat including locally reared beef, pork and wild game. There will also be organic, seasonal fruit and vegetables, free-range eggs and other delicious products such as homemade confectionery, local Lancashire cheeses, freshly baked bread and pastries, olives and specialist cider and beer.

There will also be tasty lunches on offer for busy city centre workers and shoppers including a variety of curries, freshly cooked African and Turkish foods, homemade burgers with chutneys, fresh soups and smoothies.

A special feature of the market is its fair trade element. There will be four stalls specialising in fair trade products including chocolate, clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, crafts, jute bags, and home decorations made out of recycled materials. With this section likely to expand, it's worth a regular visit to the markets.

The market provides a traditional open-air shopping experience and supports local small businesses and farms by giving them the opportunity to sell their products in the city centre, bringing fresh homegrown and home-reared produce from local farms into the heart of the city, and onto the plates of Mancunians.

The Manchester Real Food Market will be open twice monthly on every second and fourth weekend (Friday and Saturday only) 10am – 6pm in Piccadilly Gardens.

So why not attend the grand opening  on Friday 24 April - if you need even more incentive, there will be some extra-tempting treats in store for anyone who goes along.

For more Manchester City Council information visit www.manchester.gov.uk