A TRADER has returned to Orford after 20 years in Warrington Market.

Collectibles and video games retailer Playzone has set up shop on Orford Lane after close to two decades in the market.

The move has seen owner Nick Rodely return to the street where he set up his first business, a discount store that was sited on Orford Lane for a short spell in 1997.

Nick, who lives in Orford, said: "Before I went on to the market we had a little discount shop on Orford Lane for three months when I was just finding my feet and moving back there is honestly the greatest thing I've ever done.

"We've come to a new place with a new venture and we can sell separate lines like slushes and drinks that we couldn't do when we were on the market.

"It's a nice little area on the way into town and there's a lot of community spirit here.

"This corner of Orford is alive again.

"There's a big buzz about the new shop and it's got a proper retro feel."

Playzone, which also sells special Warrington-themed cards and gifts, was not offered a place in the upcoming temporary market.

Nick added: "We met some wonderful people there and it's a lovely community but sadly it's now not what is was.

"Whether the temporary market will bring that back I don't know, because the younger generations use the internet more for shopping.

"Luckily for us, we're always popular because we do collectibles like Dinky, Corgi, Star Wars and Star Trek.

"It's a unique shop and my customers have followed me over here from the market - I've always tried to be unique and it's a nice family business.

"Kids who were coming to me on the market years ago have now got kids of their own who are shopping with us, so we must be doing something right after 20 years."