We’ve sung the praises of many comic shops on downthetubes over the years, as well as slinging the occasional brickbat (more often than not, at a multiple like WHSmith, whose ideas for comic display have often left us gobsmacked).
But we rarely get the chance to sing the praises of an independent high street newsagents that’s doing more than usual to promote their comics in stock, so a big hand, please for Market Place News in the little town of Garstang, Lancashire.

This small retailer not only has a wide range of comics for all age groups, but has also made space for a good selection of the latest annuals from DC Thomson
Not only does this high street shop offer a terrific range of comics, including the licensed, largely polybagged titles that will appeal to younger readers often (but not always) influenced by the latest popular TV show; Market Place News has also chosen to highlight its DC Thomson fare, including the latest annuals, right by its counter, which should surely encourage sales, as well as Doctor Who Adventures and some Titan Magazines.
And if that wasn’t an impressive illustration of how a small retailer can easily promote its comics, even in a smallish space, then Panini UK should at the very least be awarding the shop – which also sells kids collectibles like Airfix kits – for its very prominent display of their latest Marvel superhero titles.
Away from other local towns with comic shops (Blackpool, Lancaster and Preston), this is the kind of newsagent that deserves (and clearly gets) the support of locals who to be frank are ill-served by other retailers in the area when it come to offering a wide range of comics choice. Where others have cherry picked only the top-sellers, this little newsagents puts local multiples to shame with its range (and not just comics, either).
If you’re ever passing through this Lancashire town (perhaps on your way to a Preston Comic Con, Lancaster Comics Day or the Lakes International Comic Art Festival, why not drop in for some comic supplies on the way.
Thank you, Market Place News, for supporting comics! You’re a credit to your trade.
• Market Place News is online at www.mpngarstang.com
• Do you have a favourite high street retailer who does their bit to promote comics beyond the usual? Why not mention them in a comic below?
- About the Author
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The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.
Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.
He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.
Categories: British Comics, downthetubes Comics News, downthetubes News