Abbot’s much loved market has been going strong for 150 years.

Newton Abbot Pannier Market first opened for business on December 20 1871 and reached its significant milestone this past Monday.

Designed by local architect John Chudleigh and then built by Messrs J Harvey & Son of Torquay, the indoor market quickly established itself as the place to be for local traders, shoppers and suppliers of late 19th century Newton Abbot.

Praised then as it is now for its architectural beauty, the pannier market was originally open for just two days a week until 1979 when it became a six day a week operation.

A pannier market is a form of indoor market which became popular across the West Country and especially here in Devon.

Although facing down opposition like never before, the hustle and bustle is as alive today as it ever was in times past.

In light of the events of the past two years, however, it must be said that a feeling of uncertainty looms large over the beloved market.

Steve Eggbeer of DVD Box who has been trading at the market for over six years said: ‘Nobody seems to know what is going on at the moment, there is much uncertainty and this brings with it challenges.’

Fellow trader Colette Paver, who heads up Pins and Needles in the market hall, echoed Steve’s sentiment saying: ‘There is a friendly atmosphere where everyone helps one another but it feels as though the future is out of our hands now’

It cannot be said what the future has in store for Newton Abbot’s Pannier Market.

One thing can be said for certain, however, the market’s legacy will live on and it will continue, undoubtedly, to attract shoppers.

Why is this so?

Di Smith of Newton Abbot Phone Repair makes the point that: ‘The market brings with it a culture and a history of the town as well as produce and services

‘Newton Abbot is a town and it should trade like a town and a pannier market is a defining feature of a town’s trade.’