ALL sorts of items from eggs, strawberries and cards to guitars, carpets and school uniforms are on sale at Winsford Market.
Yet traders say many shoppers are surprised to discover so many stalls tucked away beside Asda at Winsford Cross shopping centre.
Florist Georgina Lockett, who closed her shop on High Street and returned to a stall last September, where her business began,said: “There are more stalls here now than we have ever had.
“A lot of people are moving into Winsford. We are a bit hidden away.”
Mum-of-six Roxi duRose, who launched her business Roxi’s Boutique, selling hair bows and ribbons four months ago, said: “Everyone has been brilliant, there is a lovely atmosphere.
“I don’t think people realise you can get so many things here.There are vintage records, animal feedstuffs, rugs and a watch and jewellery repairs. It’s a good traditional market.”
Roxi duRose with some of her homemade bows
Greengrocer Robert Althorp gets up at 2.30am to buy fresh produce and has run his stall for 41 years.
The 82-year-old said: “I don’t need to work but I’d die of boredom if I didn’t. I’ve been doing this since I was three. I used to help my dad James when he had a stall in Northwich.
“It’s nice to see the summer fruits coming in.”
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Family business Julie Clare Schoolwear founded by Neil Hodkinson and his wife, Jean, more than 50 years, is now run with daughter Julie and son Tim.
Mum-of-four Julie said: “We do a savings club and put uniforms away. If families are struggling with several children it’s a lot to pay out all at once.”
Uniforms for almost every school in the local area can be supplied.
Julie’s sister Clare Vernon took over Munchies Cafe and gave it a new look.
“It is going really well,” said Clare.”We’re getting a lot of new people who have never been here before.
“A lot of people who live in Winsford don’t realise we are here.
“We do a selection of homemade meals, hot and cold drinks, jacket potatoes, paninis, hotdogs and burgers.
“We also offer a pensioner’s special of cottage pie, a pudding and tea or coffee.”
Traders have welcomed £21 million plans by Cheshire West and Chester Council to refurbish the shopping centre.
Robert said: “Investment would be good. Refrigeration would be great, especially in this hot weather.”
Billy's Rugs
The market is open Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
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