The Market Hall in Darwen, Lancashire, was opened in 1882 and has been at the heart of the community ever since. It’s home to a fantastic mix of stalls and shops presided over by a cast of great local characters, some of whom have been there for more than half a century.

Photography by Jack Bolton

Men's Heritage Sweatshirt in Cobalt Blue, Men's Heritage Hooded Sweatshirt in Crimson.

For the foodie there’s a vast array of fresh, super-local produce, delivered with a huge dose of cheer by the likes of Tom at Turner’s, the award-winning butchers, Dean and Verity at Rushton’s, Julie and Des at Tease Your Tastebuds, Rona at S Parr & Son, Ste at the Biscuit Barrel Café, Laura at Sweet Vintage, and Deli Carlo, founded by Carlo but now run by the lovely Jackie. And beyond the gastronomy, you’ll find other gems like Petals Florist, now run by Trish (and founded at the market by her grandad 40 years ago) or the brilliant Stitch clothing repair shop run by the very talented Jackie and which we can wholeheartedly recommend.

Men's Heritage Hooded Sweatshirt in Cobalt Blue.

We love the market because it’s so much more than just a place to shop, it’s very much the beating heart of the community. This is a place to meet friends, learn a skill like crochet (the club meets on Mondays and makes all sorts of fantastic items for local charities), or just to see a familiar face and exchange a friendly word.

Women's Raglan Sweatshirt - Fuchsia.

Men's Raglan Sweatshirt - Bottle Green.