Islington’s Market Traders of the Year 2018 revealed
Two long-standing and popular stall holders have been named Islington’s Market Traders of the Year 2018.
David Brastock, whose card stall has been operating in Chapel Market for 50 years, and Serpil Erce, behind Sunny Olive Tree stall at Whitecross Street Market, were presented with their prize - £150 off their ground rent – by Islington celebrity Su Pollard and the Mayor of Islington, Cllr Dave Poyser, at the Chapel Market Christmas light switch-on event on Saturday 17 November.
David’s daughter Jo Coote, who now runs the card stall, said: “It’s fantastic to have won this competition on our 50th year in Chapel Market. It is thanks to our wonderful customers and we are so proud to have been nominated by them.”
Serpil, who won the Market Trader of the Year title last year and in 2009, said: “I am overwhelmed and delighted to have won this for the second year in a row. We have lovely and loyal customers, who know that we will be out in Whitecross Street come rain or shine.”
Cllr Asima Shaikh, Islington Council’s executive member for Inclusive Economy and Jobs, said: “I’d like to congratulate Jo and Serpil on being crowned Islington Market Traders of the Year. They have both been active in our markets for many years – especially David, whose family business is celebrating a significant milestone this year – and they deserve to be recognised for the quality service they provide.
“Islington Council wants to support our traditional markets and street traders. We recognise their social value and community benefit; bringing jobs to the local area and helping to preserve its unique character and heritage.
“This competition is a great way for us to celebrate the important role they play and I’m pleased that so many local shoppers took part in the voting.”
The Market Trader of the Year 2018 competition was open to all traders directly licensed by Islington Council at the five main council-run markets – Camden Passage, Chapel Market, Exmouth Market, Whitecross Street and Archway.
Karen Brandon, who nominated David and Jo said: “You can always rely on the stall being stocked with the perfect card and great prices. Always very friendly… you are guaranteed to have a laugh with them.”
Pieter van Bodegom, who voted for Serpil said: “I have been going to this stall on almost a daily basis for the last few years. They are amazing in creating healthy salads that are also extremely tasty. The people are lovely. They have also always supported me to bring my own container and bag and filling it up with their delicious product. A great effort to reduce plastic waste.” Both shoppers will receive £50 to spend on their chosen trader’s stall.
Highly commended by the judges were Kuntal Vyas, who runs a street food stall called Karuna at Whitecross Street Market and Dave Jackson, who has a fruit and veg stall at Chapel Market.
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