Dorothy Huyler started straw work at the age of six and years later she says she still enjoys it.

“I’m real proud to be an honouree today, I was an errand girl for the elder people,” she said.

“I grew up in the market and that’s all I know, I just love meeting the tourists and making them happy.”

Prince George Wharf came alive on Wednesday afternoon with the sounds of Her Majesty’s Prison pop band for the honouring of over 50 straw vendors.

The women who dedicated their service for over 40 years were awarded for their dedication to the industry.

Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe addressed the honourees and credited the straw market industry with making the most significant impact on tourism in the country.

“When people talk to The Bahamas and about our nation, about what made tourism work, they forget that it was the little man and the uniqueness of our people,” he said.

“No one has impacted tourism like our straw vendors, no one; no one has done more in this country.”

Straw markets are deemed as the hotspots to pick up Bahamian souvenirs, making it susceptible to establishment on other Family Islands.

“I look forward with great anticipation for proposal and development for potential saw markets sites,” said Deputy Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis.

“The islands include Andros, Abaco, Bimini, Exuma, Eleuthra, Long Island, Cat Island and San Salvador.”

This is the first year the government has held what they call “Straw Market Appreciation Day”.