STALLHOLDERS and council bosses have joined forces in a bid to stave off reports that Lancaster Market could face closure.

Lancaster City Council is looking closely at the market and its viability, and has changed its corporate plan to include comments about the retail arena's future.

But the council and traders have this week presented a united front to challenge any suggestion the change means the market's future is in doubt.

Peter Corke, of the Market Traders' Association, says: "In the last two years six new businesses have opened. Also in that time many traders have extended their businesses."

He adds: "The market recently celebrated its 800th birthday - how many other establishments can boast that?"

And council leader Cllr Ian Barker says: "We believe Lancaster needs a thriving market for local traders and we look forward to fruitful discussions with them about the future."