THOUSANDS flocked to venues across Northwich on Saturday to support a huge fundraising effort in aid of market traders.
Stallholders who lost everything in a devastating fire which gutted Northwich’s outdoor market in January will share the spoils of the wide-ranging musical fundraiser.
Dozens of venues in the town centre and beyond hosted scores of musicians, fulfilling organisers’ visions of ‘painting the town with music’ with the help of everyone from Northwich's favourite musical stalwarts to 14-year-old saxophonist Andre Adams.
Former stallholder and music promoter Iain Stead took the reins of the event after it emerged that the market was facing demolition, with some traders having lost all their stock.
Such was the feedback from Saturday, organisers are set to explore bringing a similar music event to the town centre each year.
Iain said: “It’s been amazing – absolutely exceeded our expectations.
“We have had nothing but a lot of love and positivity from everyone. It’s been fantastic, and a wonderful experience.
“I’m really glad that all the businesses seem to have benefited from it as well, particularly on that side of town near the Plaza.
“The Plaza has done us so proud – there is a lot of affection for the building. I fell in love with the place and I would love to see them benefit from a similar event in the future.”
While traders have since been offered space in the neighbouring indoor market or Weaver Square, some are still struggling to get back on their feet.
Town mayor Kevin Rimmer, who launched the event on Saturday, said: “To organise an event like that at pretty short notice and get the turn out that they did just shows how this community can come together – and it certainly did this weekend.
“It’s heartening to see such positivity, and it’s so pleasing that Northwich turned out en masse.
“A massive thank you to all the volunteers involved and the musicians who gave up their time.”
Photo: painted.papillon.smile
The historic Plaza again opened its doors to provide a stunning setting for the community event, with bands playing from noon until late.
PREVIEW >>> Full day of music to support Northwich market traders after devastating fire
Generous donations meant the bar was stocked at no cost, with every penny spent going towards the cause – around £4,500. The total for the day is still in the process of being counted, with hopes for a final figure of around £10,000.
14-year-old Andre Adams performed at Benny Bings and The Salthouse NW
Mike Amesbury, Weaver Vale MP, was among those to soak up the atmosphere on Saturday. He was among the first to visit the burned-out market while firefighters were still tackling hotspots on Friday, January 3.
Accountants have been appointed to count and verify the donations, with a total expected in the coming days.
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