AN angry trader was stunned when workers from a visiting fair dragged his car away without asking his permission.

Paul O'Brien, of Jean Paul Coiffeurs, in High Street, left work at 7.30pm on Thursday and discovered his Mitsubishi Shog-un tethered to a Wilson's Amusements lorry.

It had been dragged about 20 metres from land between the Talbot pub and Toy World. It was in gear and had the handbrake on.

The fair workers were preparing for a late night shopping weekend organised by Droitwich Spa Association for Retail, Tourism and Services (DARTS).

Infuriated Paul approached the workers who said police gave permission to move the vehicle. An officer was called to the scene and the car was checked - it had suffered little damage.

Paul, a Droitwich trader for 32 years, said: "I was shocked and appalled.

"I have resolved my differences with the fair company but I am angry with DARTS - members should have put signs up to say they needed the area."

He added: "The event was a shambles. It was great for kids but High Street is just not a suitable venue."

Tommy Wilson, of Wilson's Amusements, said: "The car park was closed from 6pm on Thursday and we did our best to find out who owned the car.

"A police officer said we could move the vehicle. We were very careful."

DARTS vice-chairman Kevin O'Donnell said: "We appreciate there may have been some criticism of the fair and DARTS, some of which may be justified.

"What we need to do now is plan for future events more appropriately suited to our town."

Spa beat manager PC Alun Jones: "We are aware of this incident and have liaised with Mr O'Brien on his options."