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When the time came for Bernard to retire after working for him for 15 years, Martyn took the opportunity to continue his legacy. For a further 15 years, Martyn’s Famous Fish Stall became a beloved fixture at Doncaster Market, however, as fate would have it, the world was thrust into the throes of a global pandemic, and the vibrant market atmosphere turned sombre. The bustling crowds gave way to silence. It was during this time that Martyn, and his partner Sarah Wilson, decided to rebrand, renaming the stall ‘The Gentleman Fishmonger’.

“At our stall, we offer more than just a single outlet; we are a destination brimming with culinary delights,” beamed Martyn. “Step into our world, and you’ll find the freshest selection of locally sourced fish from the bountiful East Coast, as well as day boat catches and exotic varieties that are hard to come by elsewhere.”

Martyn leaves no stone unturned in his quest to bring the people of Doncaster and beyond the finest seafood.

“Almost daily we are in Grimsby, where we procure fresh day catches, as well as crab and lobsters that are second to none,” he added. “But it doesn’t stop there. Additionally, we embark on a weekly journey to Billingsgate Market in London. We commence our journey from Doncaster at midnight, reaching Billingsgate just after 3am, as the market begins its operations. Within a span of two hours, we quickly and carefully purchase and load our van and make the journey back to Doncaster, arriving in time for the market opening.”

The Gentleman Fishmonger sells everything you would expect to find on a fish stall and much more, from inhouse cured salmon and seafood platters to rare breeds of snapper and the finest grade sashimi-grade tuna steaks.

Aside from the rebrand, much has changed on Martyn’s stall over the years. What was once a solitary endeavour, consisting of one man and one stall with occasional part-time assistance, has evolved into a thriving enterprise. Today, he proudly operates two stalls and an eatery within the bustling market.

And Martyn hasn’t rested on his laurels, also acquiring DN1 Delicatessen & Dining, which is just a stone’s throw from the market. The much-loved deli had been trading for 47 years when Josie, the proprietor, found herself at the crossroads as her lease neared its end, deciding not to take on another ten years. The looming loss of one of Doncaster’s great international food suppliers stirred profound emotions in Martyn and Sarah so they made the decision to step in and have made a few changes along the way, preserving not only the deli but combining it with a restaurant too.

“Inspired by esteemed culinary destinations like Harrods Food Hall or the bustling markets of Barcelona and Italy, we sought to create a harmonious blend, where the passion we have nurtured for our chefs could flourish alongside the international culinary treasures housed within the deli,” explained Martyn.

Martyn has four chefs on his books –Marcus, Adam, Oska and Taylor – who split their time between the deli and market stall.

“We nurture our chefs and strongly believe in the vision to combine the restaurant and the chef’s bench inside the deli to make it a unique destination venue and put Doncaster firmly on the culinary map,” he added.

Martyn has long-term plans for the delicatessen but, as well as adding a further concession at Walkers Nurseries, is happiest in Doncaster Market where he can mix with traders and a plethora of customers.

“In the wake of the pandemic, markets have experienced a remarkable resurgence, rekindling our appreciation for the age-old tradition of communal exchange,” he said. “People’s shopping habits are changing and they are seeking quality and value versus mass-produced quantity at a time when many are facing a cost of living crisis.

“With its blend of tradition, community spirit, and captivating allure, Doncaster Market exemplifies the renaissance of markets in a postpandemic world, where the heartbeat of a community resonates through the lively stalls and the shared moments of connection.”

Martyn describes his relationship with other traders at the market as ‘one big family’ and they all work together for the greater good.

“The bonds formed within these market walls run deep, grounded in a shared passion and a mutual understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with the trade,” he said. “In this bustling marketplace, the spirit of collaboration and support thrives, fostering an environment where traders can lean on one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and navigate the ebb and flow of the market as a united front.”

The final word from Martyn comes in the form of encouraging you to shop local and support your city, and that applies to anywhere, not just Doncaster. “Loving and supporting the city you live in is not just a choice; it’s a mindset that brings immense joy and fulfilment,” he enthused. “Embrace every corner, every street, and every landmark, for they hold the essence of your city’s identity. Remember, it is through our collective love and support that we can truly enjoy and appreciate everything our city has to offer.

“And no matter how many life changes happen along the way, changes to the country, to the city, remember that people still want good food and knowledgeable, courteous service. And this is at the heart of The Gentleman Fishmonger, the DN1 Delicatessen and your dining experience with us.”

To find out more, find them on Facebook and Instagram: thegentlemanfishmonger ndulge your sweet tooth this month with this delicous raspberry soufflé.

The sharp raspberries add extra zing to this indulgent dessert that is just perfect for summer.

Leeds Cookery School is a cookery school with a conscience because 100 per cent of their profits go to a charity called Zest who help disadvantaged communities in Leeds. They offer cookery classes and courses suitable for beginners and pros. If you want to find out more about them go to www.leedscookeryschool.org.uk