Dewsbury Market Best In the Country

The awards ceremony for the Market of the Year 2007 Competition took place at the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) Showcasing Markets Seminar at The Council House, Birmingham on January 31.

The 2007 competition had attracted nearly 50 entries from a wide spectrum of markets across the UK. Huge interest, particularly from media sources, had been generated in the event and the competition was seen as a celebration of good practice, innovation and making a difference in local communities.

Each of the applicants had to compete against the criteria which emphasised the difference the market made to its community in terms of innovation, improving public areas, good practice, awards, use of technology, embracing IT and so on.

The judging panel commented that the management techniques and initiatives used by Kirklees Markets should be an example to all market management teams across the country. They pointed to a number of initiatives which they aren't aware of anywhere else in the country and have invited the Markets Management team to make a formal presentation on these at the annual conference.

Said Kirklees Cabinet member for the markets, Cllr Ken Sims: "This is wonderful news and underlines our commitment to making markets in Kirklees the best that they can be. The refurbishment work currently underway in Dewsbury Market will make it fit for another hundred years for both our traders and their customers.

"Kirklees' enthusiasm for its markets and the support received from traders and the whole council indicates what can be achieved when markets are seen as a high priority. "