TRADERS at Preston's historic market say they're ready to plug the gap left by the Tesco Metro closure.

Preston's indoor market, which has more than 200 stalls specialising in fresh food, now wants to provide an alternative to the store which closed last weekend.

Kath Ball, from the Preston Market Traders Association who has had a stall for the last 40 years, said stallholders pride themselves on quality and value.

She said: "We are second to none. Preston market offers an amazing range and is a superb alternative now Tesco has closed.

"Please come along and take advantage of what we have on offer."

Norman Young, from Woodplumpton, whose family has owned a fresh fruit and vegetable stall at Preston market since 1889, added: "In a recent survey carried out by the Guardian, Preston market came out on top out of the whole of the North of England.

"We pride ourselves on the fact that all our produce is grown within a 20 mile radius, which means that fruit and vegetables will be picked and on your plate within 24 hours.

"Not many supermarkets can boast that."

Councillor Harold Parker, Preston's cabinet member for resources and property, said: "There has been a market in Preston since 1179 and it has enabled the town to grow and flourish.

"It's an excellent place to shop. The market and quality of goods on offer is as good as an supermarket.

"The produce, much of it grown locally, is fresh, tasty and offers great value for money."