A GOOD time was had by all during celebratory tours of a 152-year-old clock tower at the heart of a historic market.

A Darlington-wide competition gifted more than 40 winners the chance to enjoy one of a handful of tours inside the iconic town clock as part of Love Your Local Market celebrations.

Former Darlington market manager and tour guide, Peter Wilson, led eight tours up the tower during the celebratory weekend which included more than 1,000 markets hosting specialist stalls and entertainment across the country.

He said: “Everyone has thoroughly enjoyed their tour. It has been a privilege to take them around such an iconic building in the centre of town.

“There were lots of questions and some happy memories were shared. One winner recalled meeting his future wife outside the clock tower.

“He struck up a conversation with her as she waited for her boyfriend who never turned up and the rest became history.”

Other winners revealed their tour inside the clock tower on Saturday, May 21, had realised a lifelong dream.

Tour winner, Peter Ratcliffe, said: “It was excellent. I have lived in Darlington all my life and have tried to get on a tour through the Heritage Open Days many times but failed.

“It was incredible to have the chance to take the tour and our guide Peter was fantastic – he really brought the history of the place and the markets to life.”

Future tours will be offered to the public in August and Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure, environment and transport, added: “Darlington has a rich cultural heritage and I am delighted that our lucky winners have had the chance to share and enjoy a part of this.”