THIS father and son have launched a new market aimed at keeping a beloved area of Cleethorpes alive for years to come.
Michael and David Miller – the son-in-law and grandson of Wonderland founder Dudley Bowers – are behind a new market in the building adjacent to Wonderland, bringing back all the best features of the once-popular venue.
As reported, Wonderland owners Town And Country Markets sold the historic building earlier this year, leaving the market traders nowhere else to go.
However, amusement caterers Michael and David have now teamed up with the owners of the neighbouring arcade building to bring back the facility – much to the relief of the traders.
David, 32, said: "We wanted to do this to keep this area of the prom alive. It was dying after Wonderland closed down.
"We had a word with the traders. They all used to know me and my dad from when he used to run Wonderland.
"The new market is full – there are about 20 stalls in all – selling everything from toys to tools and crafts to fashion. We also have a cafe.
"Nearly all the traders we have are people who used to be at Wonderland, but there are no duplicates. Every stall is different.
"We were hearing complaints from visitors that the old market had closed, so we have brought the best of it back to a new venue."
And the stall holders are equally delighted to be back.
Veteran trader John Malik of J R Leather Goods had been working out of Wonderland market since 1980 until it closed down.
He is over the moon to be "back home" on the seafront and looking forward to welcoming customers new and old.
He said: "I have worked here every Sunday and bank holiday since then, so coming here is automatic for me.
"This new venue is great. It's nice and clean and there is plenty to see. Come and have a look."
Gill Thornes, who has run her fashion outlet Labels in Wonderland for 25 years said it was a "real relief" the new venue was now up and running.
She said: "It's back to what we know again and business is already beginning to pick up.
"It is a lot more pleasant here – it's cleaner and nicer.
"We just need to let more people know we are here and still trading on Cleethorpes seafront."
