13 March 2024 , 18:16
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A key cutter is the last market trader in his town after more than 200 stalls shut up shop.
Dad of-two Les Brannan, 57, has worked at LJB Rutherfords, one of the longest running businesses in Northampton, for 42 years after it was opened as a father and daughter enterprise in 1965. The business expanded into watch repairs and Les got a Saturday job on the stall in 1982 when he was aged 15. After leaving school he went full-time, finally taking over the business himself in 2007.
However, he is currently losing an average of £800-a-week but is refusing to quit, believing the good times will come again. He said: “I’ve been on this stall almost my whole life. I’m not going to quit. I can’t. I need to pay my staff and keep earning. I’ve seen lots and lots of traders leave. It’s never been as hard as it is now.”
Les enjoyed a good living when he ran his stall in Northampton’s Market Square where traders have been selling their wares since the 12th century. Last February stall holders were moved to a car park a mile away while the town centre and market underwent a £10million redevelopment.
Les' lonely market stall in Northampton (Joseph Walshe / SWNS)Council leaders have promised bespoke stalls in a new market, due to open in August, but low footfall at the temporary 200-pitch site, and spiralling costs sent many traders to the wall. It is hoped new Market Square will open later this year but Les fears it could be too late for many traders.
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There are a handful of part-time traders and food vans. Les said: “When I started in the market there were 270 stall holders open every day of the week and they were all full. Since moving to this site we’ve seen a huge drop off of shoppers who either don’t know we’re here or just can’t be bothered.
Les believes other traders will return to the area (Joseph Walshe / SWNS)“We begged for a shuttle bus but the council gave us a taxi service but shoppers had to wait for it and when it’s raining that wasn’t ideal. I think the new market will be good. I’m sure some traders will come back.
"A mobile phone repair business will probably open because there are loads of those around and maybe a bike repair stall. We’ve had no updates from the council about the opening of the new stalls. The last email I received was one asking if I was planning on coming back. I wouldn’t still be here if I wasn’t planning to go back.”
A West Northamptonshire Council spokesman said: “The council is working with traders to offer support. The council has provided support, including free rent, utilities, and facilities for traders as well as, one-hour free parking and a free taxi to the market.”