Cllr Sally Morgan, of Bonds Meadow, Bovey Tracey, writes:
We in Bovey Tracey are very lucky to have a number of hard-working businesses and traders in our town. It would not be an exaggeration to say that they are the lifeblood of our town.
Our traders, especially at the moment, need to be given as much support as possible. Times are hard and businesses are closing at an alarming rate. there are a number that I know of that are very close to having to give up as the credit crunch bites and competition from larger retailers steps up.
That is why, over a year ago and after a request from a number of traders, I suggested to the town council that the craft fair and French market should be held on different days so that the town and traders could have two bites of the cherry.
This year several traders made the same request.
The craft fair is great for Bovey Tracey; it brings in a large number of visitors who spend money here. The French Market is also a nice event and the town buzzes.
But when held on the same day the extra money generated does not see its way to our hard-working traders.
If the weather is bad, as it was this year, then the opportunity is lost for a whole year.
If the events were held on separate days the businesses opportunities are spread, the traders reap a greater benefit and the town gets two buzzing weekends instead of just one.
I hope that the traders request will be reconsidered because, lets face it, if they go we are all losers.