Meet The Team
Rob Knowles
Director
Rob is the Director of SPG Events NW, the company behind a wide range of artisan markets, street fayres, and community expos across the North West of England & Yorkshire.
SPG Events NW helps small and local businesses gain exposure and expand their reach by orchestrating curated events in Wigan, Bolton, Salford, and Yorkshire.
Under Rob’s leadership, and backing from Wigan Council SPG Events NW focuses on offering affordable vendor opportunities, marketing support to participating traders, and seamless event logistics—so that business owners can concentrate on their products rather than operational challenges.
For me, community events aren’t just dates on a calendar — they’re the heartbeats of local life. Whether it’s a bustling street market, a seasonal fair, or a small business showcase, I’ve always believed in the power of shared spaces to create connection, joy, and opportunity.
My passion for community events comes from seeing first-hand how much they can uplift a town — supporting small businesses, encouraging creativity, and giving people a reason to come together. There’s something special about watching a quiet high street turn into a vibrant hub full of music, laughter, and local pride.
At SPG Events NW, I get to turn that passion into purpose. From planning layouts and booking vendors to promoting events and managing the buzz on the day — I love every part of the process. The best reward? Seeing smiles on faces, stalls busy with customers, and knowing we helped make something meaningful happen.
Samantha Marsh
Event Safeguarding Manager & Owner
Samantha Marsh is the driving force behind SPG Events NW, serving as both owner and events manager. In this dual role, she oversees all aspects of event planning, from concept development and vendor partnerships to site logistics and promotional strategy. Samantha champions the company’s mission to provide local artisans, makers, and small businesses with a platform to reach their communities through well‑curated markets, street fairs, pop‑up expos, and themed events across the North West.
Under Samantha’s leadership.
Her hands‑on approach ensures that each event balances community engagement, brand exposure, and smooth execution for all participants and attendees.
Samantha’s involvement in local business development and community events positions her as a well‑respected figure in the events and markets sector across Greater Manchester and surrounding counties.
Andy
Head of Procurement and Health & Safety
Andy is responsible for all procurement across our business, ensuring that our events are equipped with everything needed to operate efficiently and to the highest standards. From sourcing equipment and supplies to negotiating with suppliers and managing stock requirements, Andy's attention to detail and organisational skills play a vital role behind the scenes.
Before joining our team, Andy built his career within the British aerospace industry, bringing with him a wealth of experience, professionalism, and a meticulous approach to every aspect of his work. His background in such a highly demanding sector has given him exceptional problem-solving abilities, strong planning skills, and an unwavering commitment to quality and reliability.
Andy works tirelessly to ensure that our teams have the resources they need to deliver successful events, often anticipating requirements before they arise. His practical mindset and calm, methodical approach make him an invaluable asset to the business.
Although much of Andy's work takes place behind the scenes, the impact of his efforts is felt across every event we organise. His dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence help ensure that everything runs smoothly, allowing our traders, visitors, and event teams to focus on creating memorable experiences.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Andy as part of our team and value the knowledge, experience, and professionalism he brings to our organisation every day.
John
Lead Events Manager
John is the Events Manager at SPG Events‑NW, where he plays a vital role in bringing together communities, businesses, and creative entrepreneurs through well‑curated markets, fairs, and festivals across the North West of England.
John oversees the full lifecycle of each event—from planning and vendor coordination to site logistics, set‑up, and on‑the‑day management. They work closely with Our head office, local businesses, food vendors, craft makers and performers to ensure each event is engaging, accessible, and runs smoothly for both traders and visitors.
In this role, John draws on strong organisational skills, excellent communication, and a collaborative approach to problem‑solving. Whether managing outdoor market stalls, seasonal Christmas fairs, or large community expos, they ensure that expectations are met with consistency, safety, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
John is committed to SPG Events‑NW’s mission of supporting small and home businesses, boosting local economies, and creating spaces where people can come together, discover new talents, and enjoy shared experiences.
In putting the needs of both traders and attendees first, John helps create events that are not only professionally delivered but also deeply felt in the local community.
Chelsea
Events Supervisor
Chelsea joined our team at the beginning of 2026 and has quickly become a valued and trusted member of the business. As Events Supervisor for our Yorkshire Division, she is responsible for overseeing the smooth running of our events and ensuring that both traders and visitors have the best possible experience.
Since taking on the role, Chelsea has been warmly welcomed by our traders and has built strong relationships through her friendly, approachable nature and willingness to help. She supports traders throughout each event, assists with event set-up and organisation, and is always on hand to deal with any questions or unexpected issues that may arise.
Chelsea takes great pride in maintaining the welcoming and community-focused atmosphere that our events are known for. Her professionalism, reliability, and calm approach help ensure that every event runs efficiently from start to finish.
In addition to her supervisory responsibilities, Chelsea is also a qualified First Aider, providing added reassurance that support is available should it ever be needed.
Her dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to both our traders and visitors make her an invaluable part of the team, and we are proud to have her leading our Yorkshire Division.
Becca
Media & Publications
Becca joins us as our Media & Marketing Coordinator, bringing fresh ideas, creative energy, and with her passion for promoting local events and small businesses. With a keen eye for design and a talent for storytelling, she’ll be leading our social media, digital campaigns, and community engagement—helping us shine an even brighter spotlight on the incredible markets and events we deliver across the North West.
We’re excited to have her on board and can’t wait for you to see what she has in store!
Martin
Events Supervisor
Martin serves as Events Supervisor at SPG Events NW, he is responsible for the on-the-ground execution and coordination of events, ensuring smooth operations from set-up to close-down.
With strong leadership skills and a hands-on approach, Martin oversees event staff, manages vendor logistics, and acts as the main point of contact during live events. Their ability to remain calm under pressure and resolve issues quickly makes them a key asset in maintaining SPG Events NW’s reputation for well-run, enjoyable, and safe events.
Working closely with the Events Manager and company leadership, helps bring together diverse traders, performers, and local businesses, creating a welcoming space for communities to connect and support local enterprise.