THE manager of Warrington Market has been recognised for his 31 year career in the industry with a prestigious national award.
Andy Ward came out of retirement to help design and built the new Warrington Market and when his temporary contract ended after four years, he was asked to stay and manage the market permanently.
His long career also includes stints at Wakefield, Sheffield, Derby and Market Harborough.
Now he has been given the lifetime achievement award from the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).
During his career Andy has been an ardent champion and mentor for the market industry and those who work in it. Passionate about sharing best practice Andy has been involved with NABMA for more than 25 years. He is regarded as a leading expert in market rebuilds, giving freely of his time and expertise to other local authorities and consultants involved in improving their market offer. He also provides mentorship for colleagues within the market industry.
Andy with his award
Andy said: “This award is for everyone involved with Warrington Market and reflects the work gone into making Warrington Market one of the best in the country. It’s also testament to how well we have reacted, post-pandemic, to get the market back up-and-running to a level that far surpasses the level we were at before the pandemic hit.
“It’s wonderful to see the market going from strength to strength as a popular, vibrant venue, enjoyed by so many people from Warrington and beyond. Receiving this national recognition from my peers is the icing on the cake.
“Of course, none of this success could have been achieved without the dedicated, hardworking and talented Warrington Market team and our traders, so this award is definitely dedicated to all of them too.”
Warrington Borough Council’s Cabinet member for economic development and innovation, Cllr Tom Jennings, said: “This national award – the latest success story for Warrington Market - is well-deserved. Andy’s dedication, expertise and innovation have been crucial in making the market a first-class destination which we can all be proud of.
“Andy has been a long-standing supporter of markets, he is passionate about delivering a vibrant and welcoming venue which is playing a key part in the recovery of our town centre.”
The main market is currently open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday whilst the Cookhouse food hall is open 11am to 7pm Monday to Thursday, 11am to 11pm Friday and Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sundays
Building the temporary market in 2017
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