Since 1286 when the town was first granted a Royal Charter to hold a weekly outdoor market, Ormskirk has long been attracting shoppers and traders.
As LancsLive spent time in the town last week, the cafes and micropubs proved popular throughout and the Court Leet - the local Wetherspoons - always appeared to have a steady stream of customers. But inside the retail outlets, things did appear to be quieter. A visit on market day - when stalls are set up along the streets - shows there is still plenty of appetite for retail in the town. One business which was cited by several shoppers as a must visit is Scott’s Butchers which has stood proud on Church Street for more than 100 years.
"We did deliveries during Covid, with two vans on the go at all times. A lot of families are busy so it is easy to come in and grab the ready meals. They are great for elderly too, who want something quick and easy but that also tastes good.” The change has been overseen by husband and wife team Simon and Fiona Beer who believe that town has a bright future. Speaking ahead of its opening last year, Fiona said: “To some, Ormskirk may just be another historic town in the North, but we chose this area for a reason. Not only has it been our home for the past 25 years, but we’re proud to be creating something that really will elevate the area and what it has to offer.
He notes that plenty of criticism is aimed at the council over issues it doesn’t actually control - such as setting business rates and rents at privately owned buildings - but understands why people feel frustrated. It’s not possible to force the likes of Primark to come to Ormskirk, he admits, but efforts are being made to make it more attractive to residents, visitors and businesses.