Butchers Clarke and Sons to move out of Preston Markets claiming drop in customers

In a notice posted on its stall wall Clarke and Sons also said it would be moving to get away from the cold.

But Preston City Council has said the new Market Hall is a prime location for trade in the city saying that it has seen over half a million visitors since June 2018.

Taped to the wall, the customer notice stated: “Clarke and Sons have decided to relocate premises.

The customer notice posted on Clarke and Sons' stall wall

“We are currently in the process and should be back in business in the next few weeks.

“We have seen a decline in the number of customers that visit us on the new market so we have decided to cut out losses and relocate to a new warmer premises.”

The notice continued: “We just believe that a new or change of premises will be a better option long term for us here at Clarkes.”

Before the new Market Hall, the traders were in the indoor market next door, which is currently being demolished.

Since the new Market Hall opened in February 2018 traders have complained of the cold, even nicknaming it ‘The Ice Cube’.

To shield traders and their customers from the draught ahead of Christmas, Preston City Council built a new porch on the breezy western side of the market, opposite the top of Orchard Street.

Neil Fairhurst, director of customer services and interim deputy chief executive said: “We were surprised and saddened to discover upon opening the Market Hall this morning, Clarke & Sons had vacated their stall.

"We are disappointed by the lack of communication surrounding their departure and the unfortunate ending to this relationship, but we wish Clarke & Sons the best in their future ventures.

"We appreciate that turnover is a natural part of the life cycle of a market and this now presents a new opportunity at Preston Markets.

"Since June 2018, when footfall counters were installed, the market has welcomed over half a million visitors.

"The prime location of this stall presents a great opportunity for a new business and we look forward to the Markets continued growth and success.”