Every Thursday in Edenbridge, you’ll find a warm welcome, colourful displays of seasonal plants, and a familiar figure setting up shop – Alan, one of the market’s best-loved traders.
At almost 75, Alan brings decades of experience and passion to his plant stall. Though he lives in Lingfield and has a nursery in Reigate, it’s Edenbridge where he’s been trading for the past six years – just before the pandemic – and he keeps coming back for the people.
“I enjoy the friendliness of the people at Edenbridge and all the regular faces. It’s nice to have a chat each week,” Alan says with a smile.
And it’s not just about plants – it’s the personal service that keeps locals coming back. Regular customer Linda sums it up: “I ask Alan for his advice all the time. What would I do without you, hey Alan?” Recently, she popped by to ask about deadheading geraniums and to pick up some trailing begonias he’d sourced for her the week before. She also stocks up on winter pansies – all at prices that are often better than the big stores. “Last week, Alan had six pots of lavender for £20. I saw the same ones at the supermarket – two for £20!”
Alan’s knowledge runs deep. He left school at 15 to work in a nursery for over 12 years before spending 37 years with Royal Mail. Ten years ago, in retirement, he returned to his horticultural roots and turned his weekend hobby into a business.
“I’m 75 this year and I don’t want to stop!” he says – and with the support of loyal customers and his sidekick Sharka, a chilled-out Bulgarian rescue dog who enjoys sunbathing at the stall, there’s no sign of him slowing down.
Alan also supplies plants to a local pub in town, adding even more greenery and charm to Edenbridge.
With Love Your Local Market running from 16 to 31 May, there’s no better time to stop by Edenbridge Market, say hello to Alan, and enjoy expert advice, great value, and a friendly chat – you’ll leave with more than just plants, you’ll leave with a smile!