Dewsbury market was the setting for a spectacular presentation of Dewsbury’s Open Market of the Year Award on the 11th February.

The formal presentation was preceded by music, a magic show and a specially written “Ode” by the Town Crier extolling the virtues of shopping on the market.

Kirklees Mayor, Councillor Donald Firth, received the award from NABMA’s Chief Executive, Graham Wilson, and Councillor Firth gave a commitment from Kirklees Council that they would continue to keep supporting Dewsbury market to ensure people keep shopping there.

In his presentation NABMA’s Chief Executive paid tribute to the co-operation between everyone involved with the markets – management, staff and the traders and praised the enthusiasm they displayed to make the market a success.

Reference was also made to other issues that impressed the Judging Panel, including a number of initiatives that help to make the market vibrant and well occupied with lots of activities taking place.

Councillor Firth described Dewsbury market as an important asset to the town and indicated that the market has plenty of choice with over 320 stalls.

President of Dewsbury Market Traders’ Association, Trish Makepeace, praised everyone who had contributed to the award saying that the people of Dewsbury have always known we are the best market and without doubt Dewsbury will continue to be the best market. She said we will continue to work together to keep our market a happy place for people to come and shop from all over.

After the formal presentation was made there was a tour of the market and the Staffordshire Pot Fair that was also taking place at the same time.