Our markets are a big part of our history.
They’re a big part of daily life in Wrexham, and they’re just as important as places for people to meet and socialise as they are to buy and sell.
Last week, one of our traders made a bit of markets history, marking 50 years of continuous trading under the one roof.
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Mohammed Anwar, owner of the Anwar fashionwear, fancy dress, accessories and Welsh-themed clothing store in the General Market on Henblas Street, celebrated 50 years of trading and his 80th birthday on Wednesday, July 25.
Mr Anwar set up the business in the General Market back in 1969 and has continued to trade there ever since.
The business hasn’t moved from its location in the market – even temporarily – in the last 50 years.
During those years, Anwar has grown to take up more and more of the General Market – which is informally known as the ‘Anwar Market’ by many Wrexham residents.
Mr Anwar said: “Having traded in Wrexham during the last 50 years, I’ve seen a lot of changes in the town.
“As well as seeing the changing face of other market traders, I’ve also seen some very big high street names come and go.
“It’s been a very interesting 50 years – and I’ve no plans to retire any time soon!”
Mr Anwar runs the shop alongside his son Shabab Anwar.
Shabab said: “We’re very grateful to all of the customers we’ve had over the years, and want to take this time to thank all the people of Wrexham who have kept us going.
“A lot of Wrexham people know the General Market as the ‘Anwar Market’, so it shows that we’ve got a very strong place in the hearts of the people of Wrexham, and we’re very grateful for that.”
Cllr Terry Evans, Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “I’d like to congratulate Mr Anwar for his 50 years of trading in the General Market.
“I wish them the very best for their continued trading in the future – and I’m sure the business will still be going in another 50 years.”
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