MARKET bosses say the full reopening and official launch of Crewe Market Hall will not be affected by the departure of the venue's events manager.

A packed programme has been organised, including an opening ceremony, for Saturday's launch event, which has been delayed because the lifting of all lockdown restrictions was put back until Monday (July 19).

The Market Hall reopened with an array of new stall holders on May 19 after months of preparations which were steered by its events manager, Chris McCaughran. But he left his role recently and the market's operators have been forced to deploy temporary cover.

Tim Naylor, from Market Asset Management, the Colchester-based firm awarded the contract to run the hall by Cheshire East Council after its £3 million refurbishment, said: "Everything is going ahead as planned and we've got a great launch event on Saturday. We will be announcing specific acts through the week to build up to the day.

"There are no issues here. We run markets across the country and we have a central team that covers all the bases."

Market Asset Management's expertise in the market sector involved installing stalls and setting up till systems, training hall staff and overseeing Covid-secure measures.

Large numbers of people have flocked to the venue to enjoy table service from the food vending stalls and live music with performers booked across the weekends.

The ending of restrictions will allow for more people to attend events, although Cheshire East is encouraging people to remain cautious and wear a mask in crowded spaces and to maintain safe distances.

Cheshire East Deputy Mayor Cllr David Marren will open the venue on Saturday morning during a short event which will be attended by local dignitaries before a day of family activities including fire breathers, stilt-walkers and a magician.

The live music performances will be held later in the day.

The numbers of stall holders was added to this week by the arrival of children's clothing outlet Mia's Baby Boutique. Others joining recently include a florists, Magnolia's, although one of the original stall holders Burton West Barbers has departed.

Hayden Ferriby, director at Market Asset Management, said: "Despite the pandemic restrictions, the market has flourished, driven by local independent traders offering amazing produce, services and a unique dining experience in a venue that has something for everyone.

"Markets like Crewe are community hubs that can help invigorate our high streets and town centres, driving regeneration to create a strong local identity and sense of place."

Cllr Nick Mannion, chair of Cheshire East Council's economy and growth committee, said: "This has been a day which has been a long time coming. I would encourage people to come and see [the Market Hall] for themselves if they haven't already done so."