Guardian photographer Jill Mead pays a midnight visit to New Covent Garden market, the largest wholesale fruit, vegetable and flower market in the United Kingdom
“Get there around midnight,” said Tommy Leighton, the press officer at New Covent Garden market. “Buyers Avenue looks a bit like Porridge, the BBC sitcom from the 70s. It’s not a hustle and bustle place, so don’t expect a Turkish bazaar.”
Above: Every Monday to Saturday Buyers Walk fills up with amazing displays of seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced from all over the world. Right: Preparing the display before customers start to arrive at 10pm. Far right: Strong shoulders and back are essential. The sales teams on Buyers Walk must have a high weekly step count. Below: Local customers from the nearby apartments regularly shop in the early hours.
