New Covent Garden Market is on the verge of an exciting period in its history, according to tenants’ association chairman Gary Marshall.
He told 320 revellers at the market’s annual dinner and dance last Saturday: “There is a vibrancy in the wholesale sector, built on the re-emergence of some retailers, the popularity of farm shops and the face-to-face trading expertise of traders.
“Our relationship with the Covent Garden Market Authority is excellent, and they are working with us in the planning of a 21st century market, that will be self-sustainable and financially sound well into the future.”
The dinner raised more than £35,000 for two charities, the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust and Trinity Hospice, Clapham, both of which have been the selected charities of the market for many years. Marshall said: “We are extremely grateful to everyone who supported the event. Special mention must go to Mr and Mrs Dicky Evans, of Homegrown Kenya, who for the eighth year running donated the main prize of a holiday in Kenya. One table, hosted by Cyril Brookner, also won £1,000 in a new draw and very generously put that money straight back into the charity pot.”
For the first time, a lifetime achievement award was handed out, for an individual in the fruit and veg trade who has supported the market in his or her own activities. The inaugural recipient was Philip Harrington, a Guildford market trader who has been buying fruit from Covent Gardens, new and old, for 60 years.
An award was also made to tenants’ association president Peter Fowler for long-term service, and special thanks were given to the current executive and previous chairman Philip Emanuel.
The date for next year’s dinner will be June 8, at the same venue - The Copthorne Hotel, Effingham Park. “Tickets are already on sale,” said Marshall, pictured with wife Deanna at the dinner. “As this year’s attendance was a record, people should get in quick to avoid disappointment.”
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