I AM appalled at the attitude of Malmesbury traders to the new market in the town on Sundays, particularly Mr Malpas and his ban on the Mayor from entering his shop.

If the traders stopped being so inward looking for a short while they would see that an enormous number of people are coming to the town to enjoy a new variety of merchandise, with the added benefit of the social interaction which those of use who live on our own greatly appreciate.

Permanent traders could even benefit from this huge influx of people who come in by opening on a Sunday.

Mr Malpas has admitted that the market does not affect his trade, so why ban the mayor from entering his shop?

Just because some traders are not trading as well as last year does not mean it is the fault of the market.

Many customers are becoming more cautious with the recent interest rate rise and not spending as before.

I visited a charity shop in the town recently and was amazed to find a vast array of brand new gifts for sale surely that will have an impact on traders as well, particularly those who specialise in such items?

I welcome the market and the friendly, approachable staff on the stalls in fact I even stopped using one Malmesbury shop earlier this year (long before the market started), because the staff were so miserable and rude.

Long may the market continue.

G FELDMAN

Foxley Road, Malmesbury