WARRINGTON Market manager Andy Ward has been presented with another prestigious national award, after receiving the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) lifetime achievement award, for his accomplishments during a 31-year career.
Andy’s award follows in the footsteps of being named Market Manager of the Year in 2021 – one of numerous awards received by the showpiece market.
Judges praised Andy for his major contribution to the industry over the past three decades. Previously working in markets in Wakefield and Sheffield, Andy retired in 2015. He then worked as a Consultant Market Manager for Market Place Management Ltd, successfully managing two indoor markets for them, in Derby and Market Harborough.
Andy then came out of retirement, returning to local government when Warrington Borough Council appointed him as Market Project Manager to oversee the design and build of their (now multi-award winning) indoor market and food court. At the end of his temporary four year contract he was asked to stay and manage the market permanently, as he made Warrington his home.
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 over 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 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 a 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 – 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
For more information about what’s happening at Warrington Market, visit warrington.gov.uk, email [email protected] or follow on social media @warringtonmkt
