IN 2001, the Market Hall and Pembroke Halls in Walkden town centre were sold off by the Labour Council, an act of civic vandalism from which the town centre in Walkden has never really recovered.

The £2.5m proceeds, which were earmarked for the regeneration of the town centre, disappeared into a financial black hole never to be seen again.

Belatedly, the Ellesmere Centre’s private owners have reintroduced market stalls into the building that stands on the site of the old Market Hall.

There are some fantastic community-minded small businesses occupying those stalls, providing a range of great-value products. I would encourage local people in Walkden and Little Hulton, and those from further afield, to pop in and see for yourself. These new stallholders are providing a great service for the local community, but they really need your help to survive and prosper.

Councillor Iain Lindley Walkden South Ward