A MARKET trader who is retiring after 52 years on St Mary’s Market has shared his memories of St Helens of the past.

Riaz Ali opened Guys ‘n’ Gals on the market in 1971 after his uncle Haji Sardar Mohammed came to the country in 1959.

He’s now 70 and has finally agreed with his four children to take a step back and enjoy more time with his grandchildren.

The granddad-of-four said: “The St Helens community has been great to me. I have many friends here including all the stall owners past and present.

St Helens Star: Riaz with his grandchildrenRiaz with his grandchildren (Image: Riaz Ali)

“20-30 years ago during busy periods we wouldn’t even stop for a cup of tea as it was so busy, but now the shops around me have closed.

“I think it’s the right time to relax and enjoy time with my grandchildren.”

Riaz, who has commuted from Manchester for the past 52 years to work in St Helens, added: “My best memories are that children who once came with their parents are now the adults who come and buy from my stall themselves, generation after generation.

St Helens Star:

“The thing I will miss most is seeing my regular loyal customers.

“My retirement means I can spend some more time with my grandchildren and put my feet up.”

His son Saif, added: “We are all very proud of dad, because of him and his work at St Mary’s Market he’s been able to push me and my siblings towards education and furthering our careers.

“Abbas is a surveyor, Asad is an accountant, Iqra is a pharmacist and I’m a dentist.

“He’s worked so hard and truly deserves to enjoy his retirement.”