PUBS and shops in Melksham are being urged to turn French for a three-day event in May if they manage to beat apathy and the war.

A traditional French market will be coming to town from May 16 and organisers are calling for traders to get involved.

Market preparations have been hit by apathy among traders, despite organisers wanting to turn the French market into a town celebration.

Town councillor Terri Welch said France's anti-war stance on the Gulf conflict could also hamper the market's success.

She said: "We don't think the French are the most popular at the moment. We don't want to just have a market, we want to have a series of events.

"It could be a really good chance to draw people into Melksham and it is up to the community to get behind it and enjoy the weekend."

Up to 20 stalls will be taking part in the market which will be sited in Market Place car park.

The car park will be closed to cars from 9am to 5pm during the three-day event.