BROMSGROVE'S first Thursday farmers' market following the two-and-a-half month lay off caused by the foot and mouth epidemic failed to woo customers back in large numbers.

But the general opinion among the 14 stallholders in and around the Market Hall last week was that it was the fault of the storms and the fact people were not aware they were back in business.

Angela Golding, from Sidemoor, who runs her own business called The Curry Shop, was making her market debut.

"Trade has not been buzzing, but I'm not going home downhearted.

"I think a combination of bad weather and people not realising the market had reopened was the reason for fewer customers. But I will be back," she vowed.

Betty Jones, from Bobbington, Shropshire, one of the original Thursday traders, who runs The Meadows Home Produce, said trade had been slow.

But she added it had been "brilliant" the previous Saturday when the market had resumed in High Street.

Bromsgrove District Council's economic developments officer, Peter Michael, who is responsible for farmers' markets said: "Bromsgrove is the first farmers' market in Worcestershire to reopen following negotiations with the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food.

"We had a brilliant re-launch on Saturday May 14 in High Street, but, unfortunately, our first Thursday market last week affected by rain.

"But we are back in business with renewed vigour and looking forward to seeing all our old customers on alternate Thursdays."

He added he was grateful for the many messages of support and encouragement they had received from the public.