Market has always been a draw for town’s shoppers
BURTON’S Market Hall has always maintained a special atmosphere for shoppers.
Maybe it’s the light and airy space which shelters the shoppers from the elements or the overall attraction of the building.
In 1982, the Burton Mail spent time at the market to discover why it was so appealing.
The subsequent report said: “Burton’s Market has always had a special atmosphere all of its own. The light and airy market hall with its bright shops lends an air of permanence as well as providing a welcome sanctuary in the rain.
“It’s not simply a place to search for an odd bargain here and there. Regular customers know they will get a good deal and many people rely on the market for their weekly fish, meat, fruit and veg.”
When visited in 1982, we discovered how many of the stallholders came from further afield with traders travelling from Sheffield, Leicester, Nottingham and Derby.
Burton has had a market since the 12th century when a charter was granted by King John.
The first market hall in Burton was built by Thomas de Feylde who was the Abbot of Burton from 1472-93.
This market hall was demolished in 1772 to make way for the town hall built by Lord Paget.
The old town hall was pulled down and replaced with the current market hall and outdoor market. The market hall opened in October 1882.
The hall itself was then updated in the 1930s with terrazo flooring replacing the original flagstones with new shop fronts and huge marble slabs for the butchers.
The layout was also changed which as a result meant less stalls but more spacious walkways.
In 1983, the market hall celebrated its centenary with the town putting on special events to mark the anniversary and stall holders dressing in Victorian costumes.