SETTLE'S annual fair was judged to be a good thing for the town this week, despite arguments about its effect on trade.

Residents at the town's annual parish meeting heard that the visiting fair, which sets up on the town council-owned Market Place each September, was part of Settle's tradition and provided entertainment for families and children.

"I think it's a good thing because of tradition - it is now run by the third generation - and because there isn't an awful lot of entertainment for families in Settle," said Coun Edith Secretan.

"I know there are snags and we have had the odd complaint in the past," she added. "But I can say in all honesty that Alf, who runs the fair, is one of the nicest people to deal with that I have ever known and he will do his utmost to answer any complaints, and do what he can to make the fair run smoothly."

Coun Secretan said during the 10 days the fair was in town the Tuesday market did not make as much money as the fair was charged, but, she added, not everything was about cash: "Surely what the children get out of the fair is worth the hassle," she said.

Coun Tom Foster agreed a visiting fair in Settle was part of the town's heritage.

But Helmut Francmanis, of Sidwell's Bakery, said he remembered the fair on other sites in the town. He also criticised the town council for giving up parking places in the Market Place to the fair.

"Trade is not very great now in Settle," he said. "You are concerned with taking two busy weekends for the fair. It used to be gone on a Sunday morning, but now it stays longer."

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