THE enthusiasm, courtesy and knowledge of Widnes Market traders have scored them full marks in a professional survey.

An independent inspector awarded nine businesses a perfect 100 per cent.

A further 50 scored more than 80 per cent, with an overall average of 77 per cent.

Market research specialist Storecheckers assessed 95 businesses to test their customer service.

Mystery shoppers visited the market between December 2014 and January 2015 to scrutinise stallholders’ performance.

They judged the appearance of stalls, products, pricing, the welcome and service, sales, staff image, their overall impression and knowledge of the market and town centre.

Catering businesses were also assessed on their menu, environment and facilties.

The report has just been published.

In it, one mystery shopper said: “A member of staff treated me with the utmost courtesy and ensured that I received the best advice he could give me.”

Another said: “Staff genuinely listened and cared.

“The atmosphere was welcoming, staff were friendly and had lots of patience, answered queries efficiently and had plenty of knowledge.”

Another added: “All members of staff appeared to be very happy with their work and transmitted this joy to their customer.

“The stall had many delightful and unusual items.”

Jeff Caplan, managing director of Storecheckers, said: “Widnes Market has done particularly well against some strong retail centres.”

Abdul’s Fashions, Granby’s Butchers, GPS Wallcoverings, Stores, Shop Mobility, Jo Jo’s Boutique, Knickerbockers, Noah’s Ark Pet Shop, S&B Pets and The Music Cave scored 100 per cent.

A further 50 were awarded more than 80 per cent.

The average score was 77 per cent.

Wesley Rourke, Halton Council’s operational director economy enterprise and property, said: “This exercise has demonstrated that Widnes Market, which is celebrating its 140th anniversary, provides a friendly and personal service to their customers.

“The results show that market traders listen, care and have great product knowledge.”