SHOPPERS at a thriving monthly market can now pick up a new skill along with their groceries as the community venture launches a series of practical workshops.

Marlow Community Market, held at Liston Hall, offers a range of produce and crafts from local growers and sellers and was set up last year to help keep money in the area.

And from this year Transition Town Marlow (TTM), the group behind the project, is turning the market into a hub for sharing practical expertise with regular ‘Skillz workshops’.

January’s offering saw advice on planting and grafting fruit trees, while last month experts were on hand to offer wisdom on saving energy.

And this month’s market sees cycling expert Steve Tolmie cover basic bike maintenance including fixing punctures, brake adjustment, chain cleaning, bike setup and more to get you back in the saddle ready for spring.

Market organiser TTM believes localisation, rather than globalisation, is key to strengthening communities in the face of rising oil prices.

Member Julia Lockwood said: "The market supports its stallholders and helps to promote their businesses in order to create a strong local economic base, where money stays within the community.

"It has rapidly become an established part of Marlow life, has bolstered local businesses, and provided a direct outlet for local produce to customers who generally rely on global supply chains for food and goods.

"More than that, it has strengthened the community and brought people together."

Marlow Community Market offers everything from meats, cheeses and fruit and veg to specialist delicatessen morsels and homemade arts and crafts.

The market and workshop will be held on Saturday 29 March between 9.30am and 1pm at Liston Hall, Marlow.

It is held on the last Saturday of the month at the same time and place, with more information available at www.marlowcommunitymarket.com