TRADERS at Droitwich Spa's indoor market want to scotch rumours that the hall is closing after Christmas.

A stallholder, speaking on behalf of traders, said sales have been down since Wychavon District Council revealed its plans to buy and demolish the market.

The authority wants Waitrose to build a supermarket at the site.

The man, who refused to be named, said: "Rumours are flying round the town that we are closing after Christmas.

"That simply is not true.

"We've been told no deal has been struck between the market owners and the district council.

"Because people think we're shutting, they are reluctant to place big orders or leave deposits."

He added: "Some traders are so concerned they may even close their stalls.

"I don't think we'll be on the move for at least 12 months -- and even then we should have new premises to move into."

The market is owned by Droitwich Property Company.

A company director said: "As yet we have signed nothing."

Wychavon district councillor Pam Davey (Con,Droit.South) said: "I'm getting extremely concerned at the distress being caused by a whole spate of scaremongering concerning all sorts of town issues.

"I've had numerous telephone calls from people who are genuinely upset when there is no truth whatsoever in the misleading information."

Wychavon's community services chief, Brian Norfolk, said discussions will not be finalised until a planning application has been determined.

He added: "Until then, the market owners have asked me to stress the hall remains very much open for business.

"The council will be investigating how a continuation of a market in the town can be achieved, should the existing market hall eventually close.