THE future of Tenbury Wells Farmers' market is threatened after an unexpected slump in trade.

Andrew Keysell, chairman of Worcestershire Farmers' Markets, said: "Unfortunately, trade seems to be dying away. If things get much worse, the future of this market is bleak."

Mr Keysell, who farms at Rochford, said the problem may be linked to the change of location - after the closure of the livestock market a new site was found behind the Post Office.

"I don't know what the problem is. The old site was more obvious, perhaps that helped to bring people in but the current site is actually better.

"It's a lot more sheltered and has a cosier feel. Maybe people don't know we are here," he stated.

He added that a special effort would be made with the market which will take place on June 25 from 9am-1pm.

"We are going to make a real effort for the June market and we will be doing our best to increase the range of stalls.

"However, the message to local residents is simple - if you want this market to continue, please come along and buy something," Mr Keysell appealed.

Chris Dell, chairman of the local tourism group, said: "We lost the livestock market earlier this year and the last thing we need is to lose the farmers' market as well."

The Tenbury Farmers' Market, which was relaunched next year, takes place on the fourth Saturday of each month.