ADVERTISING FEATURE: Marketgate shopping centre in Lancaster celebrates 30 years

Shoppers are invited to pop along to Marketgate on Saturday September 27 to celebrate 30 years of the shopping centre.

The centre will be hosting an array of activities to mark three decades at the heart of Lancaster city centre - on a day full of fun, memories and community spirit.

On the day there will be free birthday gifts for the first 100 shoppers, you can add your message to their giant birthday card, and take a selfie at the birthday backdrop (available September 27-October 10) for the chance to win a luxury hamper worth £100+.

"We're going to celebrate in style and welcome everybody down to spend the day with us," said Sarah Harrison, centre manager.

LISTEN to Sarah talking about Marketgate and the 30th birthday celebrations

Marketgate opened in 1995 on the site of the former Lancaster Market and has been going from strength to strength at the heart of the city's shopping experience.

"We've got a good mixture of national retailers and local independents, and Lancaster as a city thrives on its independent shopping," said Sarah.

"More than half of our retailers are independent, which is fantastic.

"If you look at the amount of new businesses that have opened in Lancaster city centre, there is something for everybody out there."

Sarah, who has managed Marketgate for seven years, said investment from new owners Ekistics Property/Eurofund Group has been key to its success.

She said that by Christmas, the centre - which recently welcomed a new Bonmarche store - will be 100 per cent let.

Marketgate car park is open Monday to Saturday 8am-6pm and then on Sunday from 10.30am-5pm.

Come along on the 27th and enjoy what Marketgate has to offer!

*This paid-for feature has been produced as part of the Lancaster BID Business Birthdays.