THE town's first farmers' market of the season has been cancelled because of the foot and mouth crisis.

Rural traders planned to set up stalls in High Street on Saturday May 5 but Worcestershire Farmers' Market Group has pulled out.

Members fear the risk of spreading the virus is too great.

Wychavon District Council's town centre manager, Lew Hammond, said the news was disappointing because the popular events are good for rural and town centre traders.

He added: "We are looking forward to getting the markets into Droitwich because they add so much vibrancy.

"Seven were held across the district last year and we have planned 21 in 2001."

The next Spa market is scheduled for Saturday June 2. A promotional market is planned in Vines Park on Sunday June 17.

The farmers' group is currently selling produce from a store in Crown Gate Shopping Centre, Worcester.

Group member Chris Wilkes, a grower from Stone, near Kidderminster, said: "Droitwich is a great town to trade in.

"But until the foot and mouth epidemic is under control we will work from the shop.

"This is yet another blow for county farmers."

Cllr Don Lawley (Con, Droit.South) said: "I'm sorry to hear the market won't visit Droitwich in May.

"They're great events because they benefit the community and shopkeepers, and bring lots of people to the Spa."