Since opening just over two years ago, Chester's new market has now welcomed its five millionth customer.

The market was opened by Cheshire West and Chester Council in the Northgate Development Phase 1 scheme in November 2022.

It has since attracted record numbers of visitors, massively outstripping the footfall of its predecessor and transforming the city centre.

The five millionth customers were Aoife and Gustavo from Manchester.

The pair were visiting the market for the second time this year and received £200 in vouchers to spend in the market, plus some market merchandise and the newly launched Monopoly game's Chester Edition.

Aoife said: "We were delighted to win our prize, this is our second visit to the market and we really enjoyed visiting the Christmas market also.

"We have already used some of our vouchers to buy a beautiful Christmas wreath from Purely Pots and enjoyed a lovely lunch from Crustum."

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, cabinet member for inclusive economy, regeneration and digital transformation, said: "It's brilliant to hear about the experience of Aoife and Gustavo, the five millionth customers of Chester Market.

"Reaching this milestone is an incredible achievement for everyone at Chester Market, and I'd like to thank traders, staff and all of our customers for making the market what it is today.

"The regeneration of Chester Market has been a fantastic journey, demonstrating why investing in markets allows them to evolve, attract new customers and thrive for future generations to enjoy.

"The market's popularity with all ages shows the success of the Council's vision to create a modern traditional market where you can shop local and eat global."