'People still love our olde worlde town market'

Mike Elsby, manager of Nantwich Market, was recently named small market manager of the year

People are still attracted to visiting a town's traditional, "olde worlde" market despite changes in the industry, its award-winning manager has said.

Mike Elsby, of Nantwich Market in Cheshire, was recently named small market manager of the year at the National Association of British Markets (NABMA) annual conference.

His success came after the market was named among the top 10 in the country at the Great British Market Awards 2025.

Mr Elsby told BBC Radio Stoke the recognition had yet to sink in and praised the market as a "good asset" for the town.

He said the central location of the market, which dates back to about 1500, helped to bring visitors into the town and was a "good attraction for tourism".

"It's still one of the last few really traditional markets," he said. "A lot of markets have gone down a different path - going towards food halls or entertainment.

"This place attracts people because they like the kind of 'olde worlde' look and the separate individual stalls, with several different items to sell."

Farmer Andrew Hollinshead has been selling produce at the market for eight years

Mr Elsby, who has worked at the market for the last 28 years, was also awarded an honorary life membership of NABMA during September's ceremony in Stratford-upon-Avon, in recognition of his service.

"We should all appraise and enjoy all of this because we've all worked together to make this this market run," he added.

"The traders, the customers, the staff, the people – they have all helped me out in the background with the separate parts of how this place is run. It's been a huge team effort."

Farmer Andrew Hollinshead, owner of Real.Raw.Milk, has been selling produce at markets in Nantwich for eight years.

He said: "I think the thing that must be remembered about this market is it's still part of the old time where people have freedom and people have an enjoyable shopping experience."

Nantwich mayor Mary Slinn said the market was a "cornerstone" of the town

Nantwich had managed to "keep its pace" and people still loved visiting the town, Mr Hollinshead added.

The town's mayor, councillor Mary Slinn, said she was delighted the market had been recognised.

"Nantwich Market is a true cornerstone of our town, bringing people together and supporting our community spirit," she added.

Nantwich Market opens Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at the junction of Market Street and Churchyardside.