Allerdale’s Market Trader of the Year award has this year been won by Andrew Byrne from the Pepper Bags stall in Keswick.
Andrew has been trading on Keswick for 20 years on Thursdays and Saturdays, selling bags, purses, wallets, belts, gloves, rucksacks, bumbags and leather bags.
Allerdale Borough Council holds regular markets in Keswick, Wigton, Workington, and Silloth. The award is open to all the traders on each of the markets and has previously been won by stallholders in Keswick as well as Workington.
The award recognises the contribution of stallholders to the continued success of the markets. This year, it acknowledges Andrew’s role as chair of the new Market Traders’ Forum that has representatives from all Allerdale’s markets.
The forum provides an opportunity to raise any feedback from the traders to make improvements to the way the markets are run.
Presenting the award, Cllr Mike Johnson, leader of the council, said: “I’m really pleased to be able to present this award to Andrew who has been a regular stall holder for many years and now plays a very active role in the continued success of our markets.
“The markets in Keswick, and those in our other towns have gone from strength to strength since we took the service back in house a few years ago. They continue to make a real contribution to the vibrancy and sustainability of our towns.
“This is full credit to the team, but also to the traders. Therefore, it is great to be able to recognise their success and thank them for their continued support.”
Market manager Phil Byers said: “It is brilliant to give the Allerdale Trader of the Year award again, as we couldn’t last year due to Covid. Andrew is a well-deserved recipient.”
Andrew said: “It is a great honour to receive the award, for myself and to everyone who helps on the stall.”
