THE traditional Friday morning market run by Redditch WI for 35 years will set up stall for the last time on Friday, writes Julian Seva.

The market has been forced to the wall because of a lack of members and unsustainable costs.

Market controller of 21 years Maureen Mears said the WI had six members, only three of which were cooks able to make the pastries, cakes and jams for which the market is renowned.

The members are also having problems affording their bills from the national WI Country Markets Ltd, of which they are a subsidiary, auditors and insurance costs.

The market was once based in Royal Square along with the rest of Redditch market but more recently moved to St Stephen's Church.

Anyone who would like to join Redditch WI can call Mrs Mears on 0121 445 5134.