AN appeal for major financial support for the Round Market has gone out to Malvern Hills District Council. And the Baylie Trust, legal custodians of the listed building, is anxious for a quick response.

Frank Crisp, chairman of trustees, said: "This is very important. For the first time in its 150-year history, the Round Market has been refurbished and decorated. It has cost us £12,000 and our funds are running low."

He added that, like the Pump Rooms, the Round Market was a major feature in Tenbury and should be restored to its former glory and put to good use as an active market.

"Over the years it has been allowed to deteriorate but a new secretary and treasurer has resulted in a more robust approach towards funding," said Mr Crisp.

Damage caused by high-sided lorries is just one of the reasons behind the need for cash support from the district council.

The authority promotes the rare Victorian building in glossy tourist brochures and the trustees have asked for a gesture of financial help.

The council's assistant chief executive, Stephen Lees, has supported the call for cash support. He told members of the executive committee: "The Round Market is a listed building which councils use for promotional purposes and is also an important venue for local people to sell their home- grown produce.

"The Baylie Trust contributes to many worthwhile community events as a result of operating the market and, in view of the unique and significant nature of the Round Market and its contribution to the local community, it is appropriate that making a capital grant is considered."

However, Mr Lees said no immediate decision had been taken but the council had set up a special committee to look at the need for an annual capital grant fund of £20,000 and would report back to the council in July.

Mr Crisp said: "This means more delay and more watering down of our vital request but, whatever the outcome, we will do what we can within our own limited resources.

"Perhaps, if the district council could be persuaded to give the same commendable commitment to other unique historical features in Tenbury as they did to the Pump Rooms, the Round Market will flourish. If not, this wonderful old building will be lost forever," he added.