BLACKBURN’S new £8million market has been named the best in the country.

The six-day market, which is attached to The Mall, has been named Best Indoor Market by The National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).

It comes less than a year after the six-day state-of-the-art facility opened its doors.

Coun Dave Harling, executive member for regeneration, said: “We are delighted with the news and feel the award is justified as we are very proud of our fabulous new market.

“A big thank you to everyone involved including the market traders, our partner the Mall and our customers who have given us tremendous feedback.

“It is nice that our market, which is drawing thousands of visitors every week, has been recognised nationally.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council, in partnership with the Mall Fund, has invested heavily in the Market as part of its commitment to the regeneration of the town centre.

When it was launched on Wednesday June 1 last year, around 70 of the 126 units were occupied.

Since then five stallholders have left the market, but several others have set-up shop, and there are currently around 100 stalls in operation.

As well a number of stalls selling non-food merchandise, the facility boasts a substantial food court, with stalls and cafes.

The accolade was announced at NABMA’s one-day conference yesterday.