RATIONING was still in force when Edith Cooper set up her dress material stall in Bolton.

She was fresh out of the Women's Auxilliary Air Force with whom she had served during the Second World War.

Her retirement, 55 years later, marks the end of an era at Ashburner Street Market.

Generations of shoppers have grown up knowing 'Mrs C', as she is affectionately called by colleagues.

Mrs Cooper, aged 78, said: "We get a lot of ladies who come in with grandchildren, whose mothers used to bring them shopping here.

"They all remember me.

"It's like one big family here with other stallholders and customers, and I've made a lot of friends."

Colleagues surprised Mrs Cooper, whose stall bore a sign saying "Last day after 55 years" on Saturday, with bouquets of flowers and a selection of presents.

Mrs Cooper, who was visibly moved by the tribute, said: "I had no idea they were going to do this."

Friend Joanne Crompton, of the Crompton's Cards stall, said: "It just won't be the same here without her.

"She's a lovely lady and it feels like she has always been here."

Sylvia Brabner, who runs a babywear stall, said: "The market is a close community and Mrs Cooper has always been a real part of it.

"She's always offered advice and a helping hand and she's been very supportive.

"This is the end of an era."

But Mrs Cooper's decision to step down from the stall only represents a reduction of her workload.

With her son John taking over the running of the stall in Bolton, she will continue to operate stalls at Bury, Ormskirk and Huddersfield markets, travelling from her home in Rossendale.