Ref. 22944-4HIGHWORTH and Wootton Bassett market manager Dennis Williams will retire from managing both markets at the end of the month.

Mr Williams, 77, has been a familiar figure at the Saturday Market in Highworth and Wednesday Market in Wootton Bassett, working on both for more than 20 years.

Mr Williams said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my work as a market manager.

"It's not an easy job. You have to get to know the sellers and ensure that you provide a pitch which will sell their goods. I have only ever had one problem over those years, with one seller who was being uncooperative, but I soon sorted that out."

Over the past 10 years, Mr Williams has also raised thousands of pounds for the local Prospect Hospice based in Wroughton by giving mini-concerts at the markets with his electronic keyboard.

He has entertained residents of both nursing and residential homes as well as patients of the hospice. Two years ago his car was broken into and was robbed of many of the tapes that he recorded as well as some of the equipment.

He is now aiming to create a new set of tapes in retirement, which will help him in his fundraising. But for this, he needs the services of professional recording experts. He is therefore looking for sponsors.

He can be contacted on 01793 526802.