Call for end of six-day trading on Accrington market

The trial, introduced in September, will be reviewed later this month.

Traders say they have either seen a fall in profits or seen no improvement in takings, while paying an average of ten per cent higher rents.

However, the council’s leader says the weather has affected the success of its three-month trial to open on Wednesdays.

Market board chairman and Chamber of Trade vice president Ian Smith said: “Six-day trading just does not work.

"The most my business has taken on a Wednesday is £30 and that is everyone’s experience.

“If it doesn’t work in the run-up to Christmas, it’s not going to work any other time.

"However, new signs painted outside advertise six-day opening, so traders are concerned it’s a done deal.”

Trader Tony Heaton, of hoisery firm J Heaton and Sons, said: “It’s the best time of year, but some days were very poor.

"It will be a hard year ahead and there are still a lot of empty units.”

John Grimshaw at B & E Cosmetics said: “Wednesday opening should be optional now that traders have had the chance to see how it suits them.

“The fact is though that it has been a bit of a flop.”

Sheila Parkinson, at Peggy’s Cafe, said: “We have really struggled.

“The boss always did her baking on Wednesdays because everything was homemade, so the trial just hasn’t worked for us.”

However, Susan Holden at card stall Matthews said: “We have had some success in the run-up to Christmas because of the type of things we sell.

“I think the real test will be in January.”

Leader of the council Peter Britcliffe said: “Unfortunately, the weather has had an effect on market trading.

“The two busiest days for the town centre happened after the thaw on Tuesday and Wednesday.

“But sadly these were the days we had agreed with traders in advance to close the market.

“Now and over the next few weeks will be the time when they will benefit the most.”

Coun Britcliffe said the scheme would be reviewed after the trial ended on January 16.