AS part of the Bolton News’ campaign to help the town’s small independent traders, we are featuring a series of profiles on those who help bring diversity to your town centre shopping experience, writes Neil Brandwood.

Today, we meet a market trader who has quickly established himself as a true Bolton character...

ALAIN Job opened his Cameroonian food stall Nkono in Bolton Market four years ago and it was a success from the beginning.

Recently, it was awarded a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, something that is only given to establishments that consistently earn great reviews from travellers.

“Business is improving all the time, in fact I’m hoping to expand,” said Alain.

He attributes his success to selling quality food that is different to the standard fayre.

“I provide home-cooked authentic African food to people who are bored of the usual stuff and want an alternative.

“I’ve introduced African food to a lot of people who had never tried it before and now they love it. More than 90 per cent of my customers are English.

“It’s all cooked with love and passion but curried goat is the favourite dish of my customers.”

As well as delighting taste-buds, Alain helps keep the Bolton pound in Bolton by buying all his ingredients from neighbouring stalls.

He is also supportive of the wider community and sponsors Bolton Mets Rugby Club.

On December 8, Alain will host a Christmas party to thank all his loyal customers.

“I’ll be serving Christmas lunch African style,” he said.