Page 20 - Market Times August 2021
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FEATURE • LITTLEHAMPTON
   Alf Frank, 83, who has been selling fashion on markets for more than 50 years, still loves trading and appreciates the friendly atmosphere in Littlehampton
He has also built a strong rapport with traders. One of them described standing Littlehampton as a step back to the good, old days — not so much in terms of the volume of market shoppers which will never return to those levels, but in the atmosphere.
“Traders turn up with a smile on their faces. People are chatting and messing about. It is relaxed and easy going and everyone helps each other out,” he said.
Colin said local people appreciated the market and had become loyal customers. Visitors, especially families, provided a boost in the summer.
Littlehampton is an old-fashioned-style resort with the seafront, a mini fairground, a marine park and crabbing off the quay.
“The only thing modern about the market is the gazebos,” Colin said. And that’s why locals like it.
The traders are positive about the market. Alf Frank, who is still selling fashion at 83, said: “We started in Chichester in 1970 and we still like to stand this market. It’s all about the people and the company,” he said.
Sam Dogruluk who sells SWAG is the only trader from the first days of the market still trading. “It’s still one of my best markets. It’s very friendly and the customers are loyal,” he said.
Zina Bookham, who has been selling kitchenware on the market for the past four years, has found the market a home from home.
“I have always wanted to be self- employed after working in offices and I had the idea of selling kitchenware on the market because I like kitchen stuff and it is something everyday that people need.”
Paul Massiano, known on the market as Pablo the Bling, said he does well on Littlehampton market.
“I have been a trader since I was 14 and worked all over the country selling different lines on markets from Wales to London,” he said. Paul rates Littlehampton market and likes the fact that it is so traditional and friendly.
“My bling sells well here at the moment but its popularity will come to an end, then I will move on to the next line. In this business it is all about staying ahead of the game,” he added.
David Stokes, in contrast, has brought an old-fashioned service back to Littlehampton market — shoe shining.
David has had an interesting life. At his core he is a writer and poet, with a published book and a nickname of The Littlehampton Poet.
More than 30 years ago he began offering a shoeshine service at Clapham
 Zina Bookham has found a happy home on Littlehampton market where she has been selling kitchenware for the past four years
 Sam Dogruluk has been selling all sorts on the market since it started up in 2011















































































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