SIR, — Why on earth are market traders paying so much money for a stall in St Albans? Over �100 for a pitch on a Saturday — that s a lot of money to make, especially in today s climate before you can say you are making any profit on the goods you are sell

SIR, - Why on earth are market traders paying so much money for a stall in St Albans? Over �100 for a pitch on a Saturday - that's a lot of money to make, especially in today's climate before you can say you are making any profit on the goods you are selling. The goods have also had to be bought too.

Surely a stall should cost about �50 with each stall owner to be responsible for their own mess at the end of the day and then more traders would be interested.

Surely a market is a magnet for most people - they draw in the crowds which makes for a busier town/city, thus bringing more trade to the other shops.

A busy shopping centre or town/city gives it a good reputation, visitors pass on the news and so it becomes a must-go place.

Please let's stop driving out the things that are a part of being English. All too soon we are going to regret it so much.

B. ILES,

Parkfield, Markyate.