TRADERS in one of Preston's 'forgotten' shopping streets have been dealt another blow - council chiefs are refusing to put up hanging baskets for the summer.

Traditionally the flower-filled baskets are hung on lamp posts around the town, transforming the centre into a mass of colour during the summer months.

But this year, traders in Friargate Brow - the non-pedestrianised part of Friargate - have been told there will be no floral displays.

"This is a big disappointment for us all," said shop-owner Robert Hilton-Jones, pictured, of Stuart's for Leathers.

"We are trying very hard to promote our part of town and the hanging baskets make a big improvement to the street scene during the summer.

"It is a shame the council can't take a more pro-active stance on the matter."

Last year council workers swept through the street, removing every object which had been placed on the walkway- including A-boards, a stuffed sheep and a 6ft tall Red Indian statue!

Then traders felt the wrath of the council once more when they were told that there was insufficient cash in the coffers to fork out for Christmas lights across the street.

The shopkeepers have now formed their own traders group on the street and are working hard to draw people to the area.

Robert added: "We are re-painting our shops to make them look more attractive and we would appreciate some help from people like the council.

"The hanging baskets made the area look nicer and I am sure they attract more people."

A council spokesman said the decision was taken at officer level, saying that many parts of the town were not getting baskets this year.

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