A host of new traders have set up shop on Rochdale Market following its move to the heart of the town centre.
The traditional-style market opened next to the town centre Metrolink stop last month, and seven new traders have already joined the ranks.
Among them is Rachel Eyre, a florist with 13 years experience, who also runs a stall on Middleton market.
Rachel, who set up ‘Beautiful Blooms’ 18 months ago with her fiancée John Hyland, said: “I’d heard about the new market and that Rochdale town centre was improving with the new Metrolink and bus station and stuff, so I thought I’d give it a try. The location is great and the set up here is good. It’s the perfect shop front really.
“We’ve had a good first week and many people have been asking when we’ll be on again, which is great.”
Another new face on the market is Ian Freeman, who has been a butcher for almost 40 years and also has stall on the Heywood Magic Market.
Ian, who runs Freeman’s Butchers, said: “I sell all types of fresh meat, as well as things like sausages and meatballs. Almost everything I sell is sourced locally, from Royton and Manchester. This market is in exactly the right spot and I’ve had a positive first week. I’d definitely be looking to continue to trade here.”
Rachel Goodyer, who runs ‘The Laughing Loaf’, pitches up on Fridays and Saturdays selling a range of pies, fresh bread and cakes.
She said: “I used to run a stall with my dad on the indoor market and decided to set up on my own with my husband last year. We haven’t had a base until now, so this was a good opportunity. We source all our bread locally from bakeries in Greater Manchester and Lancashire and people seem to really like the products. It’s got a good footfall here and we’ll definitely continue trading on Rochdale market.”
Other new goods being offered on the market are guitars and musical supplies, children’s books and toys and portraits.
The newcomers join the existing stalls on the market, which sell a range of products including fresh fruit and vegetables, cosmetics, clothes, fresh fish and jewellery.
Councillor Richard Farnell, Leader of Rochdale Borough council, said: “We’re pleased that new traders are so impressed with our changing town centre that they want to come and join its growing market. Every successful town centre needs a thriving market and Rochdale Market is most certainly on the up.”
A full list of the stalls on the market, and the days that they operate, is available at www.rochdale.gov.uk
20 Mar 2015