FORTNIGHTLY street markets may be held in the town if the idea is sold to traders and residents.

Droitwich Spa Association for Retail, Tourism and Services (DARTS) wants fortnightly Saturday markets in High Street starting in the spring.

This year, DARTS, in partnership with Wychavon District Council, has run three growers' markets.

Research highlighted they attracted customers from a wide area and increased the number of shoppers in town.

Stall provider Sketts confirmed it can run monthly growers' markets and a general retail market.

Wychavon District Council has stepped forward to publicise the growers' markets.

DARTS vice-chairman Kevin O'Donnell said: "This is a natural follow on from successful events held over the years.

"As long as the situation is controlled and monitored I do not see how markets can harm trade."

The group now wants feedback from businesses and shoppers. Not all traders welcome the news.

Greengrocer Walter Newman said the occasional market was okay but he feared stalls selling fruit and vegetables will take away his trade.

He added: "I pay high rates and rent for this shop - it's just not fair."

David Harrison, of Machins, in High Street, said although markets bring people into town, the visitors do not look in shops because they want to see stalls.

DARTS member Terry Spencer, of Spa-Tronics, High Street, will accept written comments before mid-November. The plans will then be discussed at an executive committee meeting.