Middlesbrough trader opens record shop after surviving battle with cancer

Middlesbrough trader Ray Hill has opened a new store in Dundas Indoor Market, where he offers a range of film and music in their many formats.

Five years ago, Ray found out he had cancer in his liver and bowel, and had two major operations, one removing two-thirds of his liver, as well as undergoing six months of chemotherapy.

His illness also meant Ray had to give up his job as a self-employed removal and delivery driver, which he had been doing for the previous two decades, and he could not work for two years.

Ray remarked: “The treatment wasn’t too bad really. The main thing is I’m fine now.” He has a collection of thousands of films and records and began selling them at The Shambles Market Hall in Stockton.

He has now moved to Middlesbrough and is confident that music fans’ rediscovered love of vinyl will bear fruit.

Ray continued: “The records have been the most popular. People have come back to them. I don’t know whether it’s the sound or the pictures on the cover or whether they prefer something physical rather than a download.”

Collectors can choose from a range of classic albums and singles from the 60s, 70s and 80s. Ray’s records largely consist of pop and rock, with artists ranging from Elvis to ABBA, Bob Dylan to Queen.

He added: “What’s on display is just a fraction of what I’ve got. If people can’t find what they’re looking for, there’s a good chance I’ll have it at home.”

Ray is one of a number of new traders at Dundas Indoor Market. He joins the S & J Sugar Cave sweet shop, PM Toys and Collectables, Simply Babywear, and Inspired Photography Services.

Market manager David Harris said: “They offer something different from the High Street and an opportunity to buy a really personal present. Coming here you are also supporting your local independent traders who we all want to do well.”