SHOP owners are being asked to not cause problems for market traders at their new site.

Bromyard's Farmers' Market, which is held on the last Friday of every month, has to be moved from its present site outside Bromyard Leisure Centre to the Market Square because of building work for a new library extension.

The market, which is usually made up of six or seven stalls selling a variety of produce, is to be relocated permanently and Herefordshire Council asked Bromyard and Town Council to send a joint letter to business people to gather support.

The council agreed to send the letter at a meeting on Monday. Coun Andrew Pack added: "Anything that brings trade to Bromyard will benefit the town as a whole."

The farmers pulled out of holding a mar-

ket at The Square 18 months ago following opposition from nearby shop owners.

"Previously we've had some hassle about going into The Square," said Herefordshire Council's markets officer Jeff Owen.

"Some shop owners were against the idea and said they would leave their vehicles out to obstruct the stalls.

"This is a do or die thing for Bromyard. If the market traders can't get on there we'll pull out because there are no other sites in the town they will go on.

"If they get any problems they'll just get fed up and walk away. It's what took them off 18 months ago."

The farmers returned to Bromyard in March and intend to hold a market every month plus one at Christmas.

Mervyn Harris, owner of Harris Butchers in Market Square, said he knew nothing of a move but was concerned at the potential loss of income.

"I'm not in favour of the move. I think most traders would be opposed. Trade was pulled away from us the last time they were on The Square and there will a loss again," said Mr Harris.

"Bromyard's a bit dead at the moment so it's hard enough getting customers in."