The news that London's oldest fish market is facing permanent closure has shocked and saddened the tenants at Billingsgate Fish Market. Tony Lyons is the chairman of the London Fish Merchants Association, which represents the tenants, and is confident the trade has a future. "You can't wipe it out overnight," he says.

Two of London’s oldest markets, Billingsgate and Smithfield, will cease operations by 2028, marking the end of traditions dating back to the 11th century. The City of London Corporation announced Wednesday it will relinquish its responsibilities for the markets and compensate traders as they transition to independent operations.

The Smithfield and Billingsgate markets have a long history in the city of London, and date back nearly 900 years. They will permanently close in the coming years.