INDOOR market traders in kendal are looking forward to the next 25 years in business - after celebrating their silver anniversary.

Kendal Indoor Market Hall has just celebrated its 25th birthday and is now in its 26th year.

The building, just inside of the Market Place entrance to the Westmorland Shopping Centre, was constructed in 1886 but was fully refurbished and reopened in 1988.

Three of its traders have been in business since it opened its doors a quarter of a century ago.

Paul Sharples, 55, owns Classic Bags which specialises in luggage and has been up and running for 25 years.

Mr Sharples said: “All the businesses are owned by individuals who care very much about what they sell.

“There’s a nice atmosphere, especially in summer when there’s more of a buzz, and we have people who come here every time they’re on holiday.”

Mr Sharples also claimed that the Market Hall has benefitted from almost 100 per cent occupancy since it began.

Field and Country Clothing owner Graham Thorpe has also been trading since day one.

He said: “The business has changed for me over the 25 years, I sell better quality goods and have different customers, but have regular customers that come once or twice a year now.

“Everyone gets on well, it’s a friendly place to be.”

Newer to the hall is Faye Walker who has run Faye’s Sewing Box for three years, since she bought it from her mother in law.

However, the haberdashery has in fact been there for the whole 25 years, but Ms Walker has high hopes for the future.

Ms Walker said: “It’s lovely here, a great atmosphere with very loyal customers who have been coming since it started.

“I’m just starting to sell dress patterns and hoping The Great British Sewing Bee on the BBC will create a revival.

“It proved successful last year for business, and it’s a longer series this year.”

Ms Walker’s next door stall neighbours Graham and Julie Heavyside have also been in the hall for 25 years with their card business.