Modern plumbing is something most of us take for granted but it has been a long time coming for the Errington Farmers Market which now has a flush toilet that is accessible for everyone.
The washroom was officially opened on Saturday, May 5 when the market kicked off its 39th annual season.
There was a special toilet paper ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.
Long time market supporter Dave Malek was the guest of honor who cut the ribbon and declared the washroom open.
The Errington musician who walks with the assistance of braces after contracting polio when he was three years old said it was important that the washroom be accessible to all.
He said although he uses crutches most of the time, some times he uses a wheelchair and the washroom can accommodate wheelchairs and more.
“Everything we build should be accessible to all people…not just for wheelchairs but a mom with a stroller or a senior with a walker,” he stated.
When Malek helped design the market kitchen 15 years ago a space for a washroom was included but it has taken this long to finally get a flush toilet and sink.
The washroom had to go through the proper channels through the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) before it could be opened to the public and now the port-a-potty which had been the only choice for washroom breaks is now a thing of the past.
Errington market vendor Bob Herbison reminded everyone of the progress the market has made.
He recalled that way back when there just used to be an old wooden outhouse behind the backstop in the Errington Community Park.
The market goes from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. every Saturday, May through September.
On May 12 the live entertainment at the market bandshell will feature Maureen O’Hearn and Bill Cave.