TRADERS stepped back in time to celebrate the future of their new look market hall at the Lancaster Assembly Rooms on Saturday. The traders wore authentic Victorian fashions to welcome customers and tourists at the re-launch of the market hall. A party of young visitors from Spain were entranced by costumes worn by the traders (pictured) including Victorian gentlemen and ladies, a courtesan of the 1840s and a cheeky 1920s housemaid.

Four new start up businesses arrived on the first day to take trading spaces the re-designed market hall selling antiques, collectibles and decorative crafts. A better lay-our of the trading spaces in heritage building has created attractive central stalls.

It impressed trader Ken's Antiques enough for them to open a stall selling small antiques. Another newcomer is Jason Books who specialises in collectable editions. His arrival means there are now two books retailers for the serious book collector.

As a new venture two crafts stalls have opened: one selling beautiful hand made quilts and cushions by Esther and the other glass-painting and plasterwork decorations by Susan who also offers a full range of crafts supplies for enthusiasts.

"Inquiries have been coming in fast for the remaining stalls available," said market superintendent Jean Wilcock.

"It is an excellent start at an ideal time in the lead up to Christmas trade.

Inquiries for five-day trading or for casual trading one or more days should be to Jean Wilcock on 01524 66627.

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