MARKET traders in Darwen today claimed an increase in their rents could kill the town's three-day market.

It follows a letter from markets manager Terry Longden saying that after a rent review, charges should rise by 6.25 per cent.

The letter adds: "This may at first sight seem a somewhat large increase but...the last increase of net rent was in November 2000. While the rate of inflation is not particularly high, it has certainly exceeded the 6.25 per cent review figure."

Clive Wilson, who is downsizing his toys and toiletries stall because of the cost, will have to pay an additional £7.50. He said: "However much it goes up by is too much, because people can't afford the rate as it is now. I am paying £120 and people coming on as new traders are offered them for half price, which isn't fair.

"The council says there hasn't been an increase for a few years but before that it doubled between 1997 and 1999."

Another trader warned: "People are just going to cut the size of their stalls or even leave."

Coun Roy Davies said: "I believe we should be lowering the prices to encourage as many people back to Darwen as possible. When we have established a good basis then by all means put up the rent, but at least at a reasonable rate."-

No one at the council was available to comment.