Doncaster fishmonger makes it his mission to maintain a thriving market community

A fishmonger on Doncaster market has made it his mission to maintain the thriving community among shoppers and traders.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The Gentleman Fishmonger is a stall in the market which has been run by Martyn Pippard for 30 years.

Despite the grueling challenges that Covid-19 has brought to many businesses the fishmonger has managed to expand his and is looking for more staff to hire.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad
Martyn Pippard in front of his stall with staff.Martyn Pippard in front of his stall with staff.
Martyn Pippard in front of his stall with staff.

“We’re thinking about opening another venue and online deliveries during lockdown have boomed.”

It is not only trade that Martyn brings to the market. He has made it his personal mission to enhance the community that exists among both the market traders and the customers.

“For some of the customers we get we might be the only person they have spoken to all day,” Sarah added.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“This year Martyn has really looked out for those people, especially the older ones.

Martyn starts his days at 3am to ensure he gets the best fish available to sell on the market.Martyn starts his days at 3am to ensure he gets the best fish available to sell on the market.
Martyn starts his days at 3am to ensure he gets the best fish available to sell on the market.

“He goes above and beyond every day to make sure that they’re doing ok.”

Starting at 3am to drive to the country's best fish markets in Manchester and Birmingham then selling produce back here in Doncaster.

Sarah attributes their boom in business to the high quality fish that they acquire from these sources as well as the hard work of Martyn.

Marytn has built a friendly community between the traders within the market.Marytn has built a friendly community between the traders within the market.
Marytn has built a friendly community between the traders within the market.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Like many other traditional businesses this year meant a shift online.

Martyn took a step out of his comfort zone and started posting the behind the scenes of a fishmongers life on Instagram.

In short videos he shows not only his own business but those who trade around him.

“Martyn has really created an eco-system among the traders,” said Sarah.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We know that the more variety on the market the better that we all do.”

Sarah said that the couple are thankful for the support they have received from other market traders and their customers during 2020.

“Every single person who works on this market is so brilliant.

“We have an incredible community who are so passionate about Doncaster.”

To find out more about the Gentleman Fishmonger click here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.