New traders prepare their pitch as new markets launch in Bolsover

Twelve new market traders are busy preparing their perfect pitch, ready for the re-launch of Bolsover Market on Friday.

The fledgling business owners have recently completed the UK’s first and only specialist market trading master classes in the UK.

They will unveil their stalls this Friday, 13 March, on Bolsover Market Place, North Derbyshire. Bolsover was granted a market charter by Henry III in 1225.

Almost 800 years later, and market days are still held there on Tuesdays and Fridays, with stalls ranging from fishmongers to flowers.

Now, following construction work to upgrade the town centre, Bolsover markets are being re-launched to welcome the new traders and showcase their skills.

Albert Burton, 59, who will be launching his hand-made bespoke jewellery business Beautiful & Precious, said he was looking forward to the big day. “Following a house move to Bolsover 18 months ago, I wanted to earn a little and be part of my new community. The ‘How to Start a Market Stall’ master class gave me the confidence and prompted my decision to begin a stall. I am extremely pleased to be starting out as a market trader.”

“Markets can offer a level of personalised customer service and a unique shopping experience to rival larger high street retailers, and are modernising to compete, so I’m excited about the potential ahead,” he added.

National Market Traders Federation mentor and experienced market trader Keeley Flint has led the master classes and coached the new stall holders over the past two months.

She said: “The master classes were fully booked, and nearly everyone who attended has gone on to start a new stall, which is a great result and demonstrates the potential that market trading offers.”

“They now have the foundations to start earning quickly and the potential to start strong, sustainable businesses,” she said.

“I’m a great believer in the unique experience of shopping at a market and the social and economic importance of markets in towns like Bolsover.

Markets are getting switched on to digital services like ‘click and collect’ and home delivery, ensuring that they will thrive in today’s shopping culture.”

For more information about Bolsover, visit *www.discoverbolsover.co.uk , email info@discoverbolsover.co.uk, follow us on Twitter @alloverbolsover or like our Discover Bolsover facebook page

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