Market stall celebrates 60 years of trading on Barnsley Market

Amy's Cards is celebrating 60 years of trading on Barnsley Market with customers and former staff surprising current owner Sharon Wreakes as part of celebrations on Saturday.

Situated in the heart of Barnsley Indoor Market, family-run Amy's Cards has been selling greeting cards, balloons plus other party accessories since 1966 and has established itself as a firm favourite amongst the market, serving thousands of customers each year.

The third-generation stall was originally owned by Amy Wainwright, who held the stall for 31 years from 1966 to 1997. The stall was passed down to her daughter Anne, who continued to look after the business for 20 years. Current owner Sharon Wreakes, granddaughter-in-law to original owner Amy, took over the stall in 2017 and continues the legacy of the stall, alongside her sister-in-law Emma and staff member Joan.

Across the six decades, Amy's Cards has also raised vital funds for charities such as Barnsley Hospice and the Royal British Legion by putting on various displays, themed stalls and fundraisers.

Executive Director for Place, Matt O'Neill, said: "It is a fantastic achievement for Amy's Cards to reach six decades of trading on Barnsley Market. The stall is proudly positioned in the centre of our award-winning Indoor Market and has an incredible history of trading.

"The longevity of the stall shows the once more than Barnsley Indoor Market is the heart of the town and continues to be a vibrant space powered by passionate traders who work hard to bring shoppers the very best. Here's to sixty more successful years of trading for Amy's Cards."

A central part of The Glass Works, Barnsley Market has been a cornerstone of the town centre since its origins in 1249.

Barnsley Indoor Market was named Best Large Indoor Market at the NABMA Great British Market Awards 2026, cementing its position as one of the leading market destinations in the UK.