The Earl of Wessex visited a local market as England’s second lockdown came to an end, to show his support to traders coping with the ongoing economic challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.
Edward spent December 3rd touring Newbury Market in Berkshire which was welcoming back traders selling non-essential supplies for the first time since November. Only businesses offering essential goods were allowed to trade during the lockdown which ran from November 3rd until December 2nd 2020.
The Earl spent time talking to firms working at the market which has been an integral part of Newbury for many years. He heard from traders about the impact of the pandemic on their businesses and discussed their plans for the future.
Darren Bateson from Charlton Park Garden Centre said afterwards that ”he genuinely took an interest in how we’ve been doing since lockdown. He stopped and talked to all of us traders at the Market”.
Debbie Smith, the market manager, and the Mayor of Newbury, Elizabeth O’Keeffe, accompanied the Earl during his visit. Councillor O’Keeffe said they were proud to welcome the prince to the market, adding “Having been an especially difficult year for everyone, the Market Traders have continued to come along in all weathers to ensure that the Market is open for business for local shoppers. Their loyal support is very much appreciated by everyone who uses the Market.”
Newbury Market trades around the year on Thursdays and Saturdays.