A PROMINENT Alcester figure has tried to calm the tense row over the future of the farmers market.

To try to settle the "heated debate", Alcester Chamber of Trade and Commerce chairman Andy Mills has appealed to residents to "work together" to make the event - and others like it - a success.

"I feel some oil should now be poured over troubled waters," said Mr Mills.

"I would like to begin this new year by apologising to anyone who is aggrieved in the sincere hope we can work together to make the market and other events happy and successful for all in 2006 and beyond."

Mr Mills was responding to the story that has been running in the Chronicle over the last two weeks.

He added: "Clearly, certain grievances on both sides of this debate could have been better handled or managed.

"It should be remembered everyone involved in attracting the farmers market to Alcester gave their time voluntarily, with a genuine interest in providing a facility requested by residents - a market in our market town!"

The need for a farmers market was originally identified by a "health check" carried out three years ago by Advantage Alcester as part of the process to secure funds from Advantage West Midlands through the Market Towns Initiative.

The Butter Street/ Church Street and Henley Street venue for the market was agreed with Warwickshire Farmers Markets from a possible eight sites, including the main car park.

Timing of the market was also agreed and organisers felt it would be the "best achievable compromise between the market and the wishes of the town traders most affected".

Mr Mills said a volunteer was initially chosen to get the market up and running but they stepped down at the end of last year in a move that was "always the intention".

A new appointment has now been made from the chamber committee and the plan is now to adopt a "conciliatory approach to nearby residents in the hope any parking or other issues can be mutually resolved," he added.