Market struggling for customers

Stallholders at a new permanent outdoor market in Stourbridge say they have endured a tough first month with fewer customers than expected.

Smithfield Market was launched at the end of October with traders operating from small wooden huts in the corner between Market Street and the Crown Centre.

But today, traders admitted they had been disappointed at the number of customers and urged shoppers to get behind the market.

They are concerned visitors to the town do not realise the market is there or is being missed due its location just off the main shopping arcade.

Stallholders say Saturdays have proved their most successful days but the four weekdays it is open have been very quiet.

Laura Hickman, who runs a card stall, said the first month had not been what the traders were expecting or hoping for. "It has been very quiet especially during the weekdays.

"This is a shame as I think a lot of us were hoping there would be interest because it was new and interesting," she said.

"At the moment I'm doing OK but I know there are a few of the traders who have had a tough first month and are struggling."

The market runs Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9.30am until 5.30pm.