BURNLEY Market has been crowned the ‘best in Britain’.

The centre in Curzon Street came out on top and took home the Best Large Indoor Market award.

The venue, which is home to a variety of businesses, selling fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, gifts, tools and haberdashery, was graded on its contribution to the town and its community.

Traders have expressed their delight for the recognition.

Carol Beswick, 58, who has run Florist Lancashire for four-and-a-half years, said the range of sellers was a big factor to its success.

She said: “We have so much here.

“The food stalls attract a lot of younger custom the market didn’t have several years ago.

“But this has a knock-on effect and helps the other stalls gain extra trade.

“People are interested in coming to the market and that reflects on the quality of the traders in here.

“There’s some great businesses and great people here, it’s a great place to be.”

The award was presented at the British Market of the Year awards in Birmingham by Andrew Percy, minister for high streets.

Cllr Sue Graham, Burnley Council’s executive member responsible for the market, said: “This is wonderful news.

“The centre is always looking at ways of improving its customer shopping experience.

“This proves its popularity with shoppers with a keen interest in value for money.

“The hall has increased the variety of stalls, particularly when it comes to its food offer, and introduced other ways of attracting people through its doors.

“Shopping at local markets is seeing a resurgence with shoppers looking for good value, while at supporting local small traders, in a friendly bustling environment. Burnley Market Hall has all that and more.”

Marie Shaw, the market’s manager, said it was confirmation of the hard work the traders have put into the centre.

Mr Percy said: “The local community in Burnley have worked really hard to turn things around and I’d like to congratulate them on their well deserved award.

“Markets are a vital part of Britain’s bustling high streets.

“They are a platform for entrepreneurs, support our local economies and are a central part of communities across the country.”