Chocky Mike wrapping up market stall

CHOCKY Mike, real name, Michael Keeley, after more than 27 years on Tommyfield market

IT'S chocs away for trader Mike Keeley who has said farewell to Tommyfield Market after more than 27 years.

The ex-serviceman opened his sweet and cake stall Chocky Mike Ltd after travelling the world with the Royal Navy for nine years.

He initially helped out a friend on a market and explained: "I thought 'I like this'. It was a change."

A stall then became available in Oldham and he added: "I saw it and I went for it - some things are meant to be.

"It's been a good life. It's different every day, it's good fun and I have met some nice people.

"You get out what you put into it and we are just as busy now as when I stared."

But Mike (55), who lives in Rochdale, will continue to trade on day and speciality markets with friend and long-term employee Lesley McLoughlin.

He added: "I am not ready to put my feet up yet, I'm just going to enjoy life a bit more."