I AM really concerned at the way the farmers’ market in Hereford is managed.

There has been a marked decline in the number of stalls and the few stalwarts that remain seem in low morale with thoughts of the future.

Increasing stall charges is not the answer. Far better to decrease the stall charge to encourage more stalls to join the market, thereby increasing the present income.

More stalls would increase the popularity of the farmers’ market and people choosing to come to Hereford on market days, plus the knock-on effect for local shops.

Farmers’ markets are vitally important to the local community, where one can purchase sustainable and accountable food and drink, in the knowledge that it is helping local producers, and also residents and visitors.

We are encouraged to buy local produce, but the council seems intent on putting this beyond the people of Hereford.

Increasing charges to stallholders could bring the demise of the farmers’ market as we know it. A busy market is a joy to visit and an excellent way of encouraging visitors, to a vibrant busy Hereford worth to be called a market town.

MAURICE TAYLOR, Lyde, Herefordshire.