New Mall manager in ‘best job ever’

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to work at one of the top 30 shopping centres in the country,” he said.

“Since I arrived last month I’ve been made exceptionally welcome. My team is fantastic and everyone’s been very supportive of the new kid on the block.” He was also lavish in his praise of the development in the town centre.

He said: “Luton is a very forward-thinking borough. I applaud what’s happening in St George’s Square and George Street. It’s a wonderful public arena, it just oozes class. Businesses are bound to follow.”

Sheffield-born Mark, 49, had his heart set on a career in mechanical and electrical engineering. But a holiday stint in a shop led to a radical rethink and he did a management training course.

He worked for several major chains before being made redundant when he was 38.

The father-of-one said: “I applied for every job going and was lucky enough to get into Matalan.

“Then I was approached to change vocation. I went from being in retail to shopping centre management and I’ve never looked back.

“The Mall is at the heart of the town and we’ve got to play that responsibility sensitively, setting the right tone and example.”

And the amateur golfer and keen Blades fan admitted: “It’s the best job I’ve ever had.”