Members of Otley Chamber of Trade are calling for action to improve the town's market.

A meeting heard that the situation was nearing crisis point and the market is suffering from competition from supermarkets and the trend of 24-hour shopping.

Member Edward Winpenny said he knew of traders who now stayed away from the market because it was not "a viable proposition".

And they have resolved to make efforts to meet with the market traders in a bid to find a solution.

Vice president of the chamber Sylvia Reid said: "I know it is a difficult time of year for market traders.

"I am asking what we should do as a chamber if we can identify that there are difficulties with the market.

"That market is actually key in many respects to the image of Otley as a market town. It is very worrying."

Treasurer Peter Heald said markets are facing problems nationally but Otley market was an important source of vitality for business in the town.

He said: "Markets are suffering nationally to out-of-town shopping and Otley is no different but it is very much a market town and we want to see the market thrive."

He added that ventures were being made in Otley Town Partnership to re-vitalise the market as a key part of the town's centre and appeal.

Trevor Backhouse, of the Patisserie Viennoise shop at Westgate, added: "We have got to accept that people's shopping habits have changed. There are less people who have the day time to do their shopping."

And as well as facing increasing competition, the meeting heard that some traders were now staying away from the market.

Edward Winpenny, of Winpenny Photography, said: "I have spoken to two greengrocers who say it isn't worth coming to Otley, it isn't a viable proposition."

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