Tom Young’s bread stall has traded on Queen’s Crescent Market twice a week, as usual, throughout the lockdown. He’s there because he’s convinced that the historic market can be turned around, after years of neglect. Perhaps the current crisis may prove to be the turning point he’s long been hoping for.

How has COVID affected your business?
“Living right here and trading virtually on my doorstep, very little actually changed. Mine is one of those businesses that are so basic and uncomplicated that I didn’t suffer with supply or delivery problems. I’m totally reliant on my regulars anyway. They found themselves fielding inquiries from neighbours about availability of local goods, so my name kept coming up. I’ve been busier than ever.”

What’s your current offering?
“I have some lovely English cheeses, Italian olive oil and a range of pastries and cakes, as well as all the regular breads. My main source of work is architecture, which completely evaporated overnight, so although this makes very modest amounts, it’s certainly better than zero.”

What have been your greatest concerns?
“I worry about getting ill, which – touch wood – hasn’t happened so far. When you trade on Queen’s Crescent you are in a state of near permanent anxiety anyway, so it’s been manageable.”