ELY S market has been highly commended at this year s Market of the Year 2007 awards. The awards ceremony took place at the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) event in Birmingham, attracting nearly 50 entries from across the coun

ELY'S market has been 'highly commended' at this year's Market of the Year 2007 awards.

The awards ceremony took place at the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) event in Birmingham, attracting nearly 50 entries from across the country.

As a first time entrant, Ely faced stiff nationwide competition in the Best Street/Outdoor Market category but received the judges' recognition with a 'highly commended' certificate, alongside Newark and Bury - with Dewsbury taking the title.

Alison Callaby, team leader for town centres at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "After growing in popularity and prestige, Ely market has developed significantly in the last few years while others in towns around the country have declined.

"The list of activities connected to running a successful market is extensive and includes such things as arranging year-round promotions and entertainment, liaising with both new and existing traders and simple things like keeping the market clean."

The award was first launched in 2005 to celebrate the 1,150 retail markets operating within the UK, which employ more than 96,000 people.