BLACKBURN’S new £8million market opened yesterday — and was given a big vote of confidence by shoppers who packed the indoor complex.

The birth of the new market comes after years of planning and, more recently, a catalogue of rows with some traders over rent.

But after the doors opened at 9am town leaders predicted it would soon become the best of its type in the north.

It was a low-key launch for the new market which bosses have branded “the most modern in the country.”

But within half an hour the aisles were bustling, as shoppers descended from the shopping centre to explore the new layout, with queues at stalls selling everything from fresh fish to handbags.

By the end of the day bosses hailed a ‘manic’ day which was the ‘busiest in ages’.

And shoppers gave the new facility - in the ground floor of the £66million shopping centre extension in Church Street - the thumbs up with the most common description being ‘impressive’.

Council bosses had made it their goal to create a ‘continental’ market, with a high-quality food offering setting it apart and bringing shoppers into Blackburn.

While there is no sign yet of the live lobsters that had been in the council’s vision, one of the most popular new elements yesterday was the food section.

The consensus among shoppers was that the various lunchtime takeaways and communal seating had brought something new to the town.

This area, set around the elevator leading to the Mall, is surrounded by quality food stalls with several butchers, two fishmongers and a deli.

Other stalls included traders selling candles, handbags, sweets, newspapers, lingerie and greetings cards, as well as a health food stand.

Around half of the 127 plots are filled at present, but Blackburn with Darwen Council expects that to increase to two thirds over the next fortnight and up to 100per cent occupancy within two months.

Yesterday was the moment many traders had been desperately waiting for, having clung on as the previous market on Ainsworth Street deteriorated before their eyes.

“I am so happy. This will be the best market in Lancashire”, said Ismael Saleh, who owns bag stall Sparkles.

Clare Gaskin, owner of sandwich shop Well Bread, added: “It’s been crazy today, much busier than we thought.

“We certainly didn’t expect it to be this popular so soon.”

Stuart Miller, of Deli-Cious, said: “Blackburn has been crying out for a new market for many a year.”

Coun Dave Harling, executive member for regeneration, said: “It’s been a long and painful road, for the council and the traders, but the new market looks fabulous. It is a class act, no doubt about it”

Market bosses said ‘the most modern market in the country’ would be the best in the North.

Speaking as the day’s trading drew to a close, market manager Keith Holden said: “It’s been manic today, incredibly busy. The busiest day they have had for ages.

“We are confident it will all be full within two months.”

A formal opening ceremony, featuring chef Nigel Haworth, takes place next month.