Obituary: Margaret Hardman who ran Margaret's Jewellery

Margaret died on September 22 aged 88 and was a loving mother, wife and grandmother, as well as being an instantly recognisable figure in Carlisle’s market hall.

Margaret opened the stall with her husband, James – known as ‘Mr Market’ – in 1970, with the stall recently celebrating 50 years in business.

Margaret and James were married for more than 60 years (Image: Supplied) “Margaret and James decided it would be a dream come true if they could one day have their own little shop selling jewellery,” said Margaret’s daughter, Moira.

“They put their names forward for a stall in Carlisle market and waited many years for a stall as the demand was so great.

“However, on Christmas Eve in 1969 they were offered a little stall. It was to be a huge gamble as they knew it would take all their savings.

“But on February 14, 1970 they took the gamble and Margaret’s Jewellery was born - it was magical.

“The stall was an Aladdin’s cave - full of sparkle, glitter and shine.

“The minute the stall opened customers were buying a piece of the magic.”

Margaret and her daughter Moira (Image: Supplied) In July 1974 Moira left school and joined the family business. They then moved to a larger stall four times bigger, growing the business.

Margaret started piercing ears and many people across the city remember having their ears pierced for the first time by Margaret.

Margaret in her younger days (Image: Supplied) In 2000, Margaret’s Jewellery won the Paul Stevenson award for the best customer service and best display which Margaret was especially proud to win.

Margaret was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2008 and was supported through this difficult time by her close family.

In 2020, Margaret lost the ‘love of her life’, James, who is now commemorated through a plaque in the Market Hall.

“The last four years have been very challenging but with the help of some wonderful people and friends we managed to keep Margaret in her own home in total comfort,” said Moira.

“David, Margaret’s son-in-law for 51 years, showed her never ending love, care and devotion at all times, always putting Margaret first and foremost in his life.

“I'm sure Margaret would agree and love to thank him.

“Jacky Eyre was our angel. She helped care for Margaret with such love and devotion, always treating Margaret as if she was her own mother.

“Bluebird Care Group also gave mam unbelievably excellent care.

“This we will be eternally grateful for.”

Margaret Hardman will be received into church on Wednesday, October 9 to rest in St Cuthbert’s church. Her funeral will be at 10am on Thursday, October 10.