SATURDAY marked the end of an era for Bury's popular outdoor market. After an association spanning 109 years, Margaret Henshaw's family-run flower stall closed for the last time.

Margaret (pictured) has been operating from a temporary cabin after her stall was one of those that made way for the new £5 million fish and meat market.

She has decided not to take up the council's offer of a new pitch, even though her market "seniority" was recognised with the chance of first refusal on a suitable site.

Her decision was reached with some acrimony and soul-searching.

"It is heart-breaking. I will miss the market which my family has served for more than 100 years. Every minute people have been coming up to me, wishing me well for the future. There have been quite a lot of tears shed, " said Margaret, as she prepared to close for the last time.

"I started working at the stall 42 years ago. It has been my life. The market is a great community and its users are very warm, friendly people. I have a lot of friends here."

She received stacks of "farewell" and "good luck" cards and gifts as she shared a drink with friends on Saturday afternoon. "I can assure my customers that I will not be gone for long. I am currently selling my house in order to buy a shop in Colville Drive. There is a great deal to do."

Many of Margaret's customers have promised to continue to buy their flowers from her when she opens her shop later this year.

Among Margaret's loyal customers has been Elly Kirby, landlady of the Knowsley public house in Bury.

"I have bought my flowers from Margaret since I came to the town ten years ago. It is a terrible day for Bury. The market has remained popular thanks to characters such as Margaret. She is a great loss."

Mrs Mary Meredith, of Reigate Close, Bury, is in no doubt why Margaret is a crowd-puller.

"I have been visiting the stall for 24 years and Margaret's flowers have always been very fresh. This is a very sad day." And friend Lesley Francis of Andrew Street, Bury, has promised to follow Margaret to her new shop.

"I have always given my custom to Margaret and I will continue to do so. The market will not be the same without her."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.