Allerdale’s Market Trader of the Year award has been awarded to Andrew Byrne from the Pepper Bags stall in Keswick.

Andrew has been trading on Keswick for 20 years, selling bags, purses, wallets, belts and gloves.

Allerdale Borough Council holds regular markets in Keswick, Wigton, Workington, and Silloth. The award recognises the contribution of stallholders to the continued success of the markets in Allerdale.

This year’s award recognises Andrew’s role as Chair of the new Market Traders Forum that has representatives from all Allerdale’s markets. The forum provides an opportunity to raise any feedback from the traders to make improvements to the way the markets are run.

Presenting the award, Cllr Mike Johnson said: “I’m really pleased to be able to present this award to Andrew who has been a regular stall holder for many years and now plays a very active role in the continued success of our markets.

“The markets in Keswick, and those in our other towns have gone from strength to strength since we took the service back in house a few years ago. They continue to make a real contribution to the vibrancy and sustainability of our towns.”

Andrew Byrne said " It is a great honour to receive the award, for myself and to everyone who helps on the stall. My Dad, Bill, Josh and James."