Nottingham played host to what was described as a "quiet revolution" in 1972. The city long renowned for its innovation and entrepreneurial spirit struck again with the opening of the Victoria Centre Market.

Opening at the same time as the shopping centre in which it is based, the two-floor market boasted 138 traders on the lower level and 156 on the top, plus a separate section of 20 stalls for meat and fish. Scores of major businesses now operating in Nottingham and further afield began their life in this market.

Monday (March 31) marks its last day of operation. At least, that was Nottingham City Council's original ambition.

The Labour-run authority now admits that some traders will be staying put in the increasingly barren market beyond March 31. The admission marks the latest twist in a saga which has seen historic businesses, who have collectively contributed an incalculable amount to Nottingham's economy over the last decades, being treated with utter disdain.

Nottingham's market dates back to the reign of Henry II in the 12th century, with markets continuing in the former Great Market Place until the Exchange building was demolished to make way for the Council House in 1928. Markets then moved to the Central Market on the corner of Glasshouse Street and Parliament Street, before finally settling in the Victoria Centre when the shopping destination opened.

Traders were first told Nottingham

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