Former DJ realised his dream of opening a record store

A resurgence in the popularity of vinyl records in the last few years gave one Norwich stallholder the chance to fulfil a lifelong dream of opening a record store.

Ian Goldsmith, 46, opened his stall Mare's Nest Music almost two years ago.

'I just always wanted to do it,' said the former warehouse worker, from Norwich.

'I used to DJ around here regularly, mostly punk and reggae, and I've always loved music.'

Now, Mr Goldsmith sells music on Norwich market, and he mostly stocks what is to his taste.

'The first band I liked was the Sex Pistols when I was seven, and I've always liked record shops.

'I've been into music for so long it's got to be something weird to get me interested now, like Japanese music.'

And Mr Goldsmith also makes a point of supporting local bands, pointing to examples such as Ducking Punches. He also said he had a lot of time for Let's Eat Grandma, the Norwich duo getting ready to perform on Britain's biggest musical showcase - Later...With Jools Holland.

'They're right up my street,' he said.

In terms of the market, Mr Goldsmith said their were challenges to being a stallholder there, but that people should have a look around before criticising.

'Some people say it's all tat but they just need to come here and look, most of those stalls have gone.'

One of the unique things shoppers get when visiting Mr Goldsmith's stall is his experience in the music industry.

He had countless stories about seeing underground bands who would soon hit the big time, in dingy venues which have since become legendary.

But he said the vinyl industry had been hit by Brexit.

'Most of the pressing plants are actually in Europe and I've had emails saying prices have gone up.'

Although at the moment Mr Goldsmith only sells new items, he's looking to branch out into second-hand in the future.

'People do come and ask about second-hand items,' he said.

'And I'm planning on staying put on the market.'

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Bargain buys

It's not just vinyl on Mr Goldsmith's stall, with CDs, T-shirts, patches and bags also for sale.

But the main attractions does seem to be records, which Mr Goldsmith has sorted into genre for easy browsing.

In fitting with Mr Goldsmith's support for local bands, one of his favourite picks was Ducking Puches' Fizzy Brain, for £15.

He said even when he handles records all day, it's something special to hold it in your hand as yours.

Other gems Mr Goldsmith picked out were by Blur, Mad Professor and The Divine Comedy, all at £20 or under.