The Halliwell Jones Stadium was a hive of activity at the weekend as it hosted the first ever Wolves New Business Market.

This innovative community event was the first of its kind arranged by Warrington Wolves and Warrington Borough Council in association with several local partners. It brought together local start-up businesses and the people of Warrington.

Over 60 new companies attended creating a market-style atmosphere for the hundreds of people who visited throughout the day.

The event attracted a range of people from across the town from businesses to families. The Challenge Cup trophy was on hand to add to the occasion and Wolfie and Fusion Juniors entertained the children turning it into a great day out for all of the family.

Andy Gatcliffe, Wolves' chief executive said: '' Warrington Wolves accept that we are at the heart of the borough-wide community here at The Halliwell Jones Stadium and as such we believe it was very worthwhile to use the stadium to facilitate this first ever 'start up' business event. The aim was to help local entrepreneurs get their start in the business world and if, as a result of hosting this event, a few of the businesses flourish and grow, we will have achieved our goal. My thanks must go to Warrington Borough Council for their total support for the event and towards the business community.''

The Wolves are at the heart of the local community and this event brought together all generations. Ron Leather attended with his daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Rob Fellows, and his three grandsons.

Jennifer said: “The Warrington Business Market was an enjoyable morning for all our family. We enjoyed being inside the rugby ground and meeting Wolfie and we also got to find out about businesses that are local to us. I was talking to a lady from a charity on Long Lane in Warrington and we also placed an order with a couple who carve sculptures and signs for your garden out of wood!”

The stall holders were also delighted with the success of the event. Susan Coulthart of Emerald City Cupcakes said: “I received brilliant feedback on my stall while at the show and I hope this leads to contacts being made in the industry to help grow my business. It worked well being able to talk to other stand holders, stadium employees and people in the ‘know’. I also liked the fact that there was a mix of different companies and no competition for me!”

Wendy Molyneux of Wendy’s Wishes also had an enjoyable day:  “It was a good opportunity for me to conduct some market research to see if people would be interested in my business proposal. I made a couple of potentially good contacts and leads, and a few of the other stall holders seemed interested in supplying items to be included in my gift baskets. I also got some really positive and encouraging feedback from members of the public and some new ideas for expanding my business. With me only being in the scoping-out stages it was very good to be able to take part in the event at no cost to me.”