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Date Published : 20 April 2009

A four metre high Dragon and Saint George on stilts are just two of the surprises in store at markets across Walsall.

Walsall Council have joined forces with traders at the 800-year-old shopping destination and both stallholders and staff will be involved in a day of festivities to mark the day of England’sfamous patron Saint.

Markets can be found at:

• Elmore Row, Bloxwich;
• Market Place, Darlaston;
• Market Place Willenhall; and
• Digbeth, Walsall.

The fun starts from 10am on Saturday April 25 2009 and runs until 3.30pm.

Chris Gregory, Walsall Councilbusinessdevelopmentmanager, said: “This is a fantastic chance to come down to Walsall markets, have some fun and bag yourself a bargain whilst you are at it.

“There’s something for everyone and we’re sure that stall holders as well as shoppers will really get into the spirit of things.

“We’re even arranging for a rent reduction to stallholders who get into the swing and decorate their stalls.

“We want something really special here in Walsall which is why we have a giant dragon which I’m sure people of all ages will enjoy.

“We’ve also got Saint George himself coming along on stilts to take part in the fun.”

Chris took up his new position on 1 November.

His main duties will be to: –

• Develop and lead a town centre management team to champion the role of Walsall town centre and the five district centres.
• Improve consultation, communication and networking.
• Ensure the town centre is maintained to a high standard including street lighting, car parking, licensing, refuse collection, crime & safety and tourism.
• Lead on preparing a town centre management strategy and business and action plans including the market and Shopmobility.

Chris said: “I am really pleased to start work in Walsall and to take on the challenge as Walsall’s new town centre manager.

“One of my first aims will be to meet and to work together with local traders, businesses and other local organisations. There is a lot to do but I welcome the support of everyone here during my first couple of months.

“In the future and by working with colleagues and partners I plan to develop and introduce a series of significant town centre plans for the future.”

The 34-year-old has worked in local government for the last 11 years including the town centre management of Shirley and Solihull.

Chris has also led many environmental projects including the management of Solihull’s CCTV system and he jointly led the introduction of the Solihull neighbourhood management function.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “Chris’s appointment is a significant contribution to the improvement to economic activity in the town and district centres.

“The future regeneration of Walsall town centre and our five district centres is key and Chris will play a leading role in communicating with the businesses already trading.

“Communication between the people and organisations in the town and district centres is vital for the regeneration of the borough and to deliver improvements.

“We are working closely with our partners to drive forward the new town centre management initiative and Chris’s appointment is a key step.”

He’s been an angel ever since.