Garston Market, one of Liverpool's longest-running open-air markets, continues to draw loyal shoppers and friendly traders every Friday on Speke Road, despite some lamenting its heyday. Established in 1922, the market has operated for 104 years, with up to 50 stalls at its busiest offering fish, meat, flowers, baked goods, fashion, toys and homeware.
Historic roots and changing times
The market has changed location and format over its history, with many original traders being ex-servicemen from the First World War. While some recall the days of the indoor market nearby, spirits remain high on Friday mornings, with banter and loyal locals keeping the market afloat.
Traders share their stories
Fishmonger Michael Jackson, 42, has traded at the market for about 15 years, travelling from Fleetwood with fresh fish and seafood. He said: "We're only round here on Friday, so we do get supported. We've got completely different stuff to supermarkets – red snapper, local sea bass and mackerel and fish we smoke in our own smokehouse." He added: "It's a very friendly market, everyone gets on."
Father and daughter Barry Scriven, 81, and Julie Lacey, 54, have been at the market for around 20 years, with Barry trading in the city for more than 50 years. Julie still sells "Betty's famous eggs", recalling working with her late mum. Barry said: "People are not coming to the markets like they used to because of supermarkets. But they'll come for a chat."
Community spirit and challenges
Husband-and-wife team Kevin and Susan have sold baked goods for seven years. Kevin said: "[I enjoy it] immensely. I wake up in the morning and I still can get a kick out of setting about the day. It's a great gang." He added: "For a lot of traders Lidl opening affected things, but we're better than [Lidl]. People vote with their stomachs."
Retro toy trader Carl Larsen, 68, from Liverpool, said: "It's just to keep myself busy, I enjoy meeting people. There are regulars I've known for years. You get to know them, it's like a small community and family." He noted that a lack of parking has contributed to fewer visitors, saying: "It was a great old market. People used to come from all over, now it's mostly locals."
Phil Nuttall, 62, from Everton, who sells household essentials, echoed the parking concerns but remained hopeful, saying: "It's a decent market. It's all local customers and they're loyal." Danny Bracken, 43, from Dovecot, who runs a butchers, added: "It's good. Even on quiet days we have our regulars and the market has a good vibe to it."
Garston Market runs from 9am to 3pm on Fridays.
