The Local Life

Markets have been around for centuries. Before actual shops and supermarkets, market stalls were the only places to get your essential goods

Whenever I’m on holiday I always try and visit the local market. Not only does it help get to know a bit about the local area and the local people, but you can often pick up some real bargains that you won’t see anywhere else.

In the olden days, markets were used to barter and exchange goods for other goods as people had no money.

Anything from animals to herbs and spices were sold, and it was also a chance for everyone to meet up and catch up on the latest news.

Today they are still a vibrant, bustling place to visit.

Clitheroe is a historic market town that has held a regular market since the Norman Conquest in the 12th century.

Today the stallholders are just as happy to chat about their products and invite local visitors and residents to come down to see and sample their wares. Plans are in the pipeline for a redevelopment of the market to bring it into the 21st century for Clitheroe shoppers, but these have been controversial and were recently put on hold while a further report is prepared on the proposed plans.

Preston’s market is another that has seen investment and is thriving. Both indoors and outdoors, this is a place bursting with independent traders from fish stalls, to cafes, flowers to second hand goods. It really is a place you can spend a good couple of hours.

And in the opposite direction over the border to Skipton, this bustling town has an extremely popular market with stalls lining the main street, selling everything from homewares to delicious cheeses. This traditional style market dates back to Medieval times when animals in particular sheep, were traded there – hence the name Sheep Town that evolved into Skipton.

While animals aren’t traded on the main street today, on each market day, stalls are erected on the area of the high street known as the setts. These are, in effect, cobbled areas between the formal footpaths and the main road. It’s a great place to visit.

If you can, shop local and visit your local markets. Not only will you be supporting the economy, but you might pick up a bargain, as well as enjoying a chat with your friendly market trader.

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Tedd Walmsley

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Tedd Walmsley managing director of Live Magazines shares his views on the latest topics in media.

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