A DAY of celebrations marked the re-opening of Ross-on-Wye’s iconic Market House following six months of refurbishment.

Mayor of Ross Cllr Bev Pope told the crowd gathered for the re-opening ceremony, that included many visiting mayors and chairmen of neighbouring town and parish councils, explained that a lot has already been said about the Market House’s history dating back to its 17th century origins, but stated that she wanted to focus on the iconic building’s role in the community today.

She said: “This building is the heart of Ross. It has always been home to the markets, big and small. It is now home to the creative team Made in Ross; it is where tourists come to take photographs; people gather to chat when it’s raining; It is where the town’s children meet Father Christmas and where the teenagers bring in the new year.

It’s a great place for running a variety of events. During the Covid-19 pandemic it became even more important to the local community because we were able to meet each other safely, at the required distance while sheltering from the British weather.

“The Market House has always been a focus of the Rossians life. Although it was designed by the great and the good, I often think about the stonemasons who built it with their bare hands and the debt we owe them for this lovely building.

“I would like to thank the crafts people who’ve restored our Market House, enabling it to carry on in its iconic role.”

Paul Deneen, deputy Lord Lieutenant of Herefordshire, said: “This important event, the re-opening of the historic Market House, coincides with the conclusion of the JK 300 commemorations.

“The Market House has been such a key part of the history of the town of Ross for many centuries. It is one of the most famous views of this great town.

“There is a famous saying, ‘Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift which is why it is called the present’.

“In relation to this quote, and as part of the history and with JK300 in mind, John Kyrle as the Man of Ross, lived opposite this building, and was able to look over at it each day, and will have used it on a daily basis, and also did so to support those in need.

“The mystery was why it took so long for his work to be recognised and celebrated, though eventually it was.

“The town is grateful to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for making this restoration of the Market House possible and to its representative Glyn Morgan for his excellent support. I’d also like to acknowledge the support of the Wolfson Foundation and the Pilgrim Trust for their financial contribution towards the refurbishment.

“I also thank Ross Town Council for taking the initiative, as it now has the responsibility for the ownership of this important building.

“It is incredibly important for us to preserve this iconic building so that its history, heritage and distinctiveness can continue to be utilised and enjoyed by all at this time, as well as in the future. The recent work having been completed will future-proof this situation.

“This is a working market house which we use, we support, we value and we cherish as our own, and long may this continue.”