A Bolton Council officer who has worked for more than 37 years in the markets industry has been honoured with a lifetime achievement award.
David Worrall, Assistant General Manager of Bolton Market, was awarded lifetime honorary membership of the National Association of British Markets Authority (NABMA) at a ceremony last night (September 18).
Membership is given as a mark of the organisation's appreciation of someone who has made a significant contribution to their local market or the industry.
The 58-year-old's first job on a market was in 1979 and he started working at markets in Bolton in 1994.
Since 1994 he has been Assistant General Manager of Bolton Market, on Ashburner Street, and was nominated by his manager Peter Entwistle for the award.
Some of David’s achievements include helping to develop the Bolton Food and Drink Festival market into the success it is today. This year’s festival attracted around 200 traders from across the country, and a record breaking total of 267,000 visitors over the bank holiday.
David has also been a part of three major Bolton Market refurbishments.
Bolton Council Leader Cllr Cliff Morris said: “This lifetime award is well deserved. David is clearly an invaluable member of the Markets team and he has a vast array of knowledge and experience which he has gained over many years in the industry.”
Bolton Council’s Assistant Director for Community Services, Donna Ball, added: “Dave is a true asset to Bolton Market and the council. He is an utter pleasure to work with and truly deserves this recognition. A huge congratulations from everyone at the market.”
David said the award came “totally out of the blue”.
“I was shocked and surprised to receive the award - it came totally out of the blue. I have enjoyed my time working for Bolton Markets which has brought many challenges, a lot of memories and hard work but every single year has been worthwhile.
“We have a fantastic team spirit, I’m truly grateful to have been nominated,” he said.
Bolton Market is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and there is a car boot sale on Sunday.