Its vibrant local culture, diverse street food scene and well-earned status as a hotbed of creativity sees the market attract both residents and tourists, making it a significant cultural and economic centre in the area.

A wander round the market today will see you likely stumble upon a queer-owned vintage cowboy store, established local DJs broadcasting to the world from a tiny community radio studio, half-hour queues for pork sandos and window displays in experimental gallery spaces.

It’s a far cry from the sights that met you in the not-too-distant past: pirated VHS Disney tapes; smuggled tobacco; Viagra; chipped computer consoles; bootleg CDs from live gigs; and fake designer gear.

The Barras Market is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings (Image: Newsquest) I

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