Page 26 - Market Times October 2024

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FEATURE • WIDNES
Clive Middlehurst's family deli has been on Widnes market since 1947. His father Colin, now 93, started the market business after leaving the Army
have always been proud of their market, although they weren’t always positive about its relocation to its current site at Green Oaks. In fact, they fought the plans tooth and nail.
The original market was built by a co- operative of local farmers and traders on farmland off Alforde Street at the other end of town.
The brick building opened its doors to the public in 1875 and was extended over the years. Such was its success that the area of farm land around it developed to the point that there was no more room for expansion. Meanwhile time had taken its toll on the fabric of the building, and the retail heart of the town had shifted.
The obvious next move was a relocation, but when the council struck a deal with Morrisons which involved the chain building a new market next to their supermarket, with plenty of free parking on the flattened site of a former chemical plant, they were not happy.
“It was incredibly controversial,” Ian said. “People loved the old market and wanted to keep it. When the new market opened, they didn’t like the modern look and feel,” he added.
But times change and so do opinions. Successive managers have concentrated on retaining a traditional market with plenty of choice. Long-standing traders and businesses have acted as an anchor and regular maintenance and investment has kept the market fresh and vibrant.
The most recent investment in new roofs over stalls on the outdoor market has helped the 22 traders there.
The quality, long-established businesses on Widnes market continue to thrive down the years.
Clive Middlehurst’s father Colin, who is 93, started the family deli business on the market in 1947 when he left the army.
“He traded on a number of markets in this area including Widnes,” said Clive, who has been trading for 52 years.
“This market as a whole has everything to offer. Our deli business is busy because people want our products. They know what they are getting. Good local produce with no additives. We have been looking after our loyal customers for so many years now. Single people can buy just one or two slices of what they want, which you can’t do everywhere.”
Clive estimates he and his team serve 2,000 customers a week.
“Michelle, my assistant, has been working here for 27 years and we have second and third generation customers,” he added.
The bag business belonging to Simon Walsh has been on the market for more than 40 years. Karen Ward, who has been managing the stall for six years, said: “I think what makes this market so good is that it has everything for everyone.”
Tina Stott. who has been selling hair accessories including her hand-made bows on the market for 10 years, agreed. “It’s
Tina Stott has been selling hair accessories on Widnes market for 10 years. Her speciality is her hand-made bows
Karen Oliver on the fruit and veg stall she runs, pictured with her daughter Chloe Cook and five-month-old granddaughter Bobbie