ANGRY market stall holders in Bury are up in arms about the Council bumping up the town's car parking prices. And they warn that if nothing is done soon to resolve the situation Bury Market will go to the dogs. Several stall holders who have had their family businesses passed down to them through generations are furious with the Council because its members won't heed their warnings.

Flower seller Margaret O'Brien, whose family have been standing Bury Market since 1898, is opposed to anyone having to pay parking fees for the privilege of shopping in Bury.

"Bury has always been famous for it's excellent market and people from miles away used to come in their droves.

"But market traders like myself have suffered, and are still suffering considerable losses on our profits ever since the Council did away with it's free car parking facilities.

"We believe the council are now talking about raising their prices - which we all find absolutely horrendous. We've warned them they'll kill the market if they pursue this idea.

"I feel as mad as a wasp about the whole disgraceful situation and I am also worried about the effects this is going to have on our businesses."

Stall holder Willy Nacarlo who has been selling men's underwear on the market for over 30 years said: "Everyone used to come to Bury to shop. The town was renowned for its superb market and free parking.

"But now we are all seeing a terrible drop in custom, mainly due to the diabolical car parking.

"If the council do put the parking prices up, everyone may as well kiss Bury Market good-bye."

Sweet seller Leslie Fengold added: "Bury Market is not famous any more. Those days are gone.

"We keep telling the council how strongly we all feel about the sorry situation of fee paying car parks but none of them bother to take the time to listen to us."

Matthew Willis of long-established fruit and vegetable sellers Willis Brothers, said: "I've been born and brought up with Bury Market in my blood - which is something I've always been proud of.

"But now times are changing and the market is becoming a dying trade because of ridiculous car parking fees.

"If Bury went back to free car parks all the shoppers from out of the area would return and give Bury and it's market the boost it badly needs."

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