Flea market reopens in revamped premises (From Gazette & Herald)

Flea market reopens in revamped premises

PICKERING'S popular flea market is back in business after a major facelift at its Market Place premises.

Originally the town's Royal Mail sorting office, the hall has recently changed hands from local businessman Simon Boak to builder Simon Atkinson, according to the newly-appointed manager, Chris O'Hare.

A new floor, lighting and alarm systems have been installed as part of the improvement, he said.

There are now 10 stallholders offering a wide range of goods from antiques and music of the Second World War and the 1950s, to Beswick porcelain and furniture.

While several of the stallholders have two stalls, there is still space to accommodate another 15, said June Spavin, one of the original stallholders from when the hall opened as a one-off event five years ago.

"We gradually built it up to being run each weekend and now it is open daily," said June. "It is now fine premises following its revamp.

''It is light and bright and we are attracting stallholders from as far as Stockton and Leeds."

Stall rents are "extremely competitive", said Chris. "It's of great benefit to Pickering because it is popular with both tourists and residents."

Anyone interested in taking a stall is asked to ring Mr O'Hare on (01751) 474258 or 07967 608181.

Updated: 11:45 Wednesday, March 22, 2006